In a compact survey Davis carries the story of Europe from the fall of the Roman Empire through the barbarian kingdoms, the empire and new monarchies of 800–1000 and the rise of feudalism to the papacy of Gregory VII, the medieval state and the Crusades. He treats the whole period as an age of transition, keeping institutions, ideas and the Church at the centre.
A lucid short introduction by a distinguished Oxford historian, ideal for readers who want the shape of the Middle Ages in one sitting. Download the free EPUB.