Medieval England was a time of great change and turmoil. From the Norman Conquest to the Black Death, major events reshaped society, politics, and culture. The feudal system and Catholic Church dominated daily life.

Literature evolved alongside these changes. Old English gave way to Middle English, influenced by Norman French. New genres like romance and morality plays emerged, exploring themes of chivalry, religion, and social critique.

Historical Context of Medieval England

Norman Conquest and Black Death

• Norman Conquest (1066) led by William the Conquecer transformed England through Battle of Hastings victory, introduced Norman French language and culture (feudal system, architecture)
• Black Death (1348-1350) bubonic plague pandemic decimated population by 30-50%, triggered social and economic upheaval (labor shortages, peasant revolts)
• Hundred Years' War (1337-1453) prolonged conflict between England and France drained resources, impacted English society (increased taxation, military innovations)
• Magna Carta (1215) limited royal power, laid foundation for constitutional monarchy (rule of law, protection of rights)

Feudal system in medieval England

• Feudal pyramid structure organized society with monarch at apex, followed by nobles, knights, clergy, peasants and serfs at base
• Land-based economy revolved around manorial system, established reciprocal obligations between lords and vassals (military service, protection)
• Social mobility remained limited, with few opportunities for advancement outside Church (education, administrative roles)

Catholic Church's societal influence

• Dominant religious institution permeated daily life through monasteries, convents, and parish churches
• Church controlled education and literacy via monastic schools and early universities (Oxford, Cambridge)
• Artistic expression flourished through Church patronage, resulting in Gothic cathedrals (Notre-Dame, Westminster Abbey) and illuminated manuscripts
• Moral and spiritual guidance centered on seven sacraments, salvation, and afterlife concepts shaped medieval worldview

Conflicts in English literature development

• Language evolution witnessed shift from Old English to Middle English, incorporating Norman French influences (vocabulary, syntax)
• Literature explored themes of chivalry, courtly love, religious devotion, and morality (Sir Gawain and the Green Knight)
• New literary forms emerged: romance, mystery plays, and morality plays (Everyman)
• Notable authors like Geoffrey Chaucer (The Canterbury Tales), anonymous poet of Sir Gawain, and William Langland (Piers Plowman) shaped English literary tradition