Medieval studies is an academic field that focuses on the history, culture, literature, and art of the Middle Ages, roughly spanning from the 5th to the late 15th century. Scholars in this discipline explore various aspects of medieval life, including social structures, religious practices, and political systems, often drawing from primary sources like manuscripts and artifacts. This field encompasses a wide range of topics, such as medieval literature, chivalry, and feudalism. It also examines significant figures, including Charlemagne and Thomas Aquinas, and explores the impact of events like the Crusades and the Black Death on European society.