The Middle English Period

The Middle English Period, spanning roughly from the late 11th century to the late 15th century, is a significant phase in English history marked by the influence of Norman culture after the 1066 Norman Conquest. This era saw the evolution of the English language, as it transitioned from Old English to Middle English, incorporating many Latin and Norman French words. Literature flourished, with notable works like Geoffrey Chaucer's "The Canterbury Tales." Society was also changing, characterized by the rise of a merchant class and the impact of events like the Black Death, which reshaped social and economic structures.