answersLogoWhite

0

Actually, the Latin equivalent of Middle Ages, which became "medieval" in English, was first used in the Late Middle Ages, which regarded itself as the modern age. The period of 500 to 1000 was seen as a middle period between ancient and more modern ages of reason, art, and enlightenment.

The reason the year 500 or a somewhat earlier date was chosen (410 AD, 476 AD, etc.) is that the West Roman Empire fell apart at the time, and was taken over by a number of Germanic kingdoms. This supposedly began an era of darkness and illiteracy, though that period was already underway and was more a cause than an effect.

User Avatar

Wiki User

14y ago

Still curious? Ask our experts.

Chat with our AI personalities

LaoLao
The path is yours to walk; I am only here to hold up a mirror.
Chat with Lao
DevinDevin
I've poured enough drinks to know that people don't always want advice—they just want to talk.
Chat with Devin
SteveSteve
Knowledge is a journey, you know? We'll get there.
Chat with Steve

Add your answer:

Earn +20 pts
Q: Why was the word medieval first used in 500 ad?
Write your answer...
Submit
Still have questions?
magnify glass
imp