The Beginning of the Middle Ages

"The Beginning of the Middle Ages" by Richard William Church explores a significant period in history after the fall of the Roman Empire. The book begins with the death of Theodosius in 395 A.D., leaving his inexperienced son Honorius in charge of the western half of the empire. Honorius relied on the general Stilicho to defend against the Visigoths led by Alaric. However, a betrayal resulted in Stilicho's execution and Alaric's conquest and sacking of Rome in 410. This event marked the start of a tumultuous era known as the Dark Ages, characterized by weak leadership, societal breakdown, and barbarian invasions. The Franks emerged during this time and played a role in establishing the temporal power of the Papacy. Charlemagne later brought stability and a cultural revival, but his reign was marred by the first attacks of the fearsome Vikings. These Norse warriors, arriving in their shallow-draft vessels, penetrated Gaul and even conquered