Complete with introductions, full commentary, glossary and a guide to further reading,Medieval Worldsis a comprehensive sourcebook for the study of western Europe from the fifth to the fifteenth century.Drawing on a wide range of documents, from chronicles, legal, state and church documents, to biographies, poems and letters from all over Europe, the authors expertly illustrate to the reader the unity, and complexity, of the medieval world.Amongst many more, central issues discussed include:- the diverse world of monasteries- the papacy- the crusades- women- roles of the town and countryside.Studying these areas presents the reader with a view of the medieval era as it was: one of immense diversity with openness to new ideas, and outreach in areas from technology to natural philosophy. All students of medieval history will find this an invaluable addition to their course studies.