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Michigan State University

Medieval West - Reference Sources: Introduction

This is a guide to reference sources on the medieval West: guides to the literature, periodical indexes, encyclopedias/dictionaries, atlases/maps, biography, book length bibliographies. Last updated 06-13-2023

Introduction

Traditionally, the dates of the Middle Ages in Western Europe are from the fall of Rome, 476 A.D. to around 1500 A.D., or whenever the Renaissance begins, which varies from country to country. This guide emphasizes reference sources useful to scholars in history, English and French literature and language, philosophy, and religion. Some significant internet resources are included. It does not describe art or music sources, sources in Spanish, German, or Italian, or sources on individuals. It is selectively annotated. It is not comprehensive. This guide is designed to be used in conjunction with another guide called MEDIEVAL WEST - ADDITIONAL WEB SITES.  And, this guide is full of old, classic works.