This book offers a captivating journey through the history of Western Europe, spanning from the decline of the Roman Empire to the dawn of the Protestant Reformation. The author skillfully curates a collection of primary sources, including letters, chronicles, and legal documents, to breathe life into the past and provide readers with a firsthand perspective on pivotal events. Delving into the complexities of a continent in transition, this book explores the rise of Christianity and the papacy, the impact of the Germanic invasions, the emergence of feudalism, and the vibrant tapestry of medieval society. Readers will encounter iconic figures like Charlemagne, St. Francis of Assisi, and Joan of Arc, while also gaining insights into the lives of everyday people, from monks and knights to merchants and peasants. The author's meticulous selection of sources illuminates not only the political and social landscape but also the intellectual and cultural currents that shaped the era. The book delves into the rise of universities, the flowering of medieval literature, and the gradual shift towards humanism and the Renaissance. By immersing readers in the authentic voices of the past, this book provides a profound understanding of the forces that have shaped Western civilization. It reveals the enduring legacies of the Middle Ages and their profound impact on the world we live in today.