POSTCLASSICAL ERA Meaning and
Definition
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The postclassical era refers to a historical period that emerged after the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE. It is also known as the medieval era or the middle ages. This era is characterized by various political, social, and cultural changes that occurred across different regions of the world.
In Europe, the postclassical era witnessed the rise and spread of feudalism, where powerful lords controlled large territories, and peasants worked the land in exchange for protection. Christianity also played a significant role during this time, as the Church became a central institution in religious and societal affairs.
Meanwhile, in other parts of the world, such as East Asia and the Islamic world, the postclassical era saw the rise and consolidation of powerful empires and states. In China, the Tang and Song dynasties brought advancements in agriculture, arts, and technology, while the Islamic world experienced the golden age of Islamic civilization under caliphates such as the Abbasid and Umayyad.
Trade and cultural exchange flourished during the postclassical era, with the establishment of extensive networks such as the Silk Road and the Indian Ocean trade routes. These connections facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and technologies between different regions and civilizations.
Overall, the postclassical era was a time of significant transformation and development, marked by political changes, religious influences, and flourishing trade networks. It laid the foundation for the eventual emergence of modernity and shaped the course of history in different parts of the world.
Etymology of POSTCLASSICAL ERA
The word "postclassical" is derived from two components: "post" and "classical".
- "Post" is a prefix in English that means "after" or "following". It is often used to indicate a time period or state occurring after a particular historical or cultural period.
- "Classical" refers to the period in ancient Greek and Roman history that is regarded as the highest or most significant in terms of art, literature, philosophy, and cultural achievements.
Therefore, the term "postclassical" refers to a period that comes after the classical era. In the context of history, it generally refers to the period that follows the fall of the Western Roman Empire in the 5th century and lasts until the Renaissance period in the 15th century.
