ABSTRACT

Global Medieval Contexts 500–1500: Connections and Comparisons provides a unique wide-lens introduction to world history during this period. Designed for students new to the subject, this textbook explores vital networks and relationships among geographies and cultures that shaped medieval societies. The expert author team aims to advance a global view of the period and introduce the reader to histories and narratives beyond an exclusively European context.

Key Features:

  • Divided into chronological sections, chapters are organized by four key themes: Religion, Economics, Politics, and Society. This framework enables students to connect wider ideas and debates across 500 to 1500.

  • Individual chapters address current theoretical discussions, including issues around gender, migration, and sustainable environments.

  • The authors’ combined teaching experience and subject specialties ensure an engaging and accessible overview for students of history, literature, and those undertaking general studies courses.

  • Theory boxes and end-of-chapter questions provide a basis for group discussion and research. Full-color maps and images illustrate chapter content and support understanding.

As a result, this text is essential reading for all those interested in learning more about the histories and cultures of the period, as well as their relevance to our own contemporary experiences and perspectives.

This textbook is supported by a companion website providing core resources for students and lecturers.

part |38 pages

Section I

part Section II|148 pages

500–900

chapter 1|34 pages

Growth of Monotheisms

Religion, 500–900

chapter 2|36 pages

Caravan and Dhow

Economies, 500–900

chapter 3|42 pages

The Sword and the Pen

Politics, 500–900

chapter 4|34 pages

Sustainability and Climate Change

Society, 500–900

part Section III|150 pages

900–1300

chapter 5|32 pages

Pathways to Paradise

Religion, 900–1300

chapter 6|40 pages

For Sale

Economies, 900–1300

chapter 7|38 pages

Soldiers and Civil Servants

Politics, 900–1300

chapter 8|38 pages

Class Rites

Society, 900–1300

part Section IV|163 pages

1300–1500

chapter 9|42 pages

Devotion

Religion, 1300–1500

chapter 10|40 pages

Golden Opportunities

Economies, 1300–1500

chapter 11|36 pages

World Connected

Politics, 1300–1500

chapter 12|43 pages

Everyone Believes it is the End of the World

Society, 1300–1500