Antiquity refers to the ancient past, particularly the period of history before the Middle Ages, roughly from the beginning of recorded human history until around the 5th century AD. This era includes significant civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, who made lasting contributions to art, philosophy, and governance. During antiquity, many foundational aspects of modern society emerged, including democracy in Athens and legal systems in Rome. The study of antiquity helps us understand the development of human culture, technology, and social structures, influencing contemporary thought and practices across various fields.