in general terms, how would you describe the middle ages?

The Middle Ages, also known as the medieval period, is a broad era in European history lasting roughly from the 5th century, with the fall of the Western Roman Empire, to the late 15th century, just before the Renaissance. It was a time marked by significant social, political, and economic transformation. This period saw the rise of feudalism, where land was exchanged for service, and the Catholic Church grew to a dominant cultural and intellectual force. The Middle Ages are often divided into three phases: Early, High, and Late, each with distinct events and developments. The era experienced a blending of classical heritage with new cultural and political structures, significant population growth, the establishment of monarchies, and notable advancements in art, architecture, and philosophy. It was also characterized by events such as the Crusades, the Black Death, and the gradual transition toward the Renaissance, shaping modern Europe profoundly.