The Transformation of the Roman World: Ad 400-900

Rating:
Summary: Condensation of academic update on post-Roman times
Review: The book "Transformation of the Roman World: Ad 400-800" is a condensation of the major academic work, which was conducted in 1997 by scholars throughout Europe, and updates our understanding of the period immediately subsequent to the traditional decline of the Roman Empire. This book is a good starting place for anyone interested in what actually happened after the Roman Empire. Should that period be referred to as "The Dark Ages" because civilization stopped? Rather, should that period be better known for its lack of written records yet successful transition to Christianity and nationalist kingdoms? The sparcity of information on this period doesn't mean that nothing of importance occurred, but only that existing writings from that period are very scarce because people wrote fewer records, correspondances, etc. This book proves that modern methods and dedicated research can illuminate forgotten times as well as enlighten our minds. For those with unsatiated interest in the period, more detailed information can be found in the uncondensed multi-volume compilation be Webster and Brown. However, I recommend that both the average reader and researchers begin this fascinating story here. A must read.