The term “medieval” refers to the time period in European history between the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century AD and the beginning of the Renaissance in the 15th century AD. It is also known as the Middle Ages.
The medieval period is often divided into three main sections: the Early Middle Ages (also called the Dark Ages), the High Middle Ages, and the Late Middle Ages.
The exact dates and categorization can vary, but generally, the medieval period is considered to have lasted from around the 5th century to the 15th century.
The question of when the medieval period officially began is a topic of debate among historians. While the fall of the Western Roman Empire is commonly regarded as a significant turning point, some historians argue that the Norman Conquest of England in 1066 marked a more distinct transition into the medieval era.
However, it is important to note that the concept of defining historical periods is a construct created by historians to aid in the organization and analysis of history. The choice of a specific starting point for the medieval period can vary depending on regional and cultural contexts, as well as individual interpretations.
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer to precisely when the medieval period began, and different historians may have different viewpoints on the matter. It is a topic of ongoing scholarly discussion and interpretation.