The Autumn of the Middle Ages

Historical Context and Significance

The book «The Autumn of the Middle Ages» by Johan Huizinga is one of the key works on the cultural history of the late Middle Ages. It explores the cultural and social aspects of life in Europe during the 14th and 15th centuries, emphasizing the transitional nature of this period from the Middle Ages to the Renaissance. Huizinga describes the decline of medieval ideals and rituals, highlighting changes in the perception of time, space, and human nature. His work has significantly influenced the understanding of cultural processes and has become an important source for further research in the field of cultural history. The book also contributed to the development of historical anthropology, offering a deep analysis of the symbolism and mentality of the era.