Re‐Forging the ‘Age of Iron’ Part I: The Tenth Century as the End of the Ancient World?
John Howe
Abstract The tenth century, once dimissed as an unpleasant ‘Age of Iron’, now receives increased attention important age transition. Historians are attempting to understand how it fits into the broader narrative Western Civilization. Some have identified last act post‐Roman world. They identify its economy and social structures Late Antique – at least until a ‘feudal revolution’ around year 1000 suddenly swept them away. More professional soldiers based in new forts said mark sudden advent new, more chaotic order. Church state, rebuilding together after invasions civil wars late ninth self‐consciously attempted, with varying degrees success, model themselves on Roman precedents. This movement culminated reign Emperor Otto III (983–1002), who relocated capital Rome dedicated himself ‘to renew ancient customs Romans’. points tangency cited between Later world century impressive, but definitive judgement also requires that century’s novel aspects be considered.
History Compass