Medieval Europe, spanning roughly from the 5th to the late 15th century, was a period marked by the decline of the Roman Empire and the rise of feudalism. Society was structured around a hierarchy of lords, vassals, and serfs, with land ownership playing a crucial role in power dynamics. The Catholic Church, particularly the Pope, held significant influence over daily life and politics. During this time, knights emerged as important military figures, often serving their lords in exchange for land. The era also saw the establishment of castles for defense and the growth of towns, leading to the eventual rise of trade and the middle class.