Medieval to me means the period in which we are studdying, which I believe is from the "fall" of the Roman Empire to around the Enlightenmnt. That is the time, but to me the term means four diferent things in a religious context. It first means the spreading of a relatively new religion across the Mediterranean and Gaul. In this time scholars were making sense of this religion and dramatic displays of faith made saints. Next, meieval means the institutionalization of that Christian religion as bishoprics spread and gain influence over Frankish kings and their people. This religion is also seen in slightly different forms in Norse settlers and in England. Next, we see a period of further institutionalization in which warriors go to defend their religion while the educated begin to use reason to govern their lives under God and make sense of certain religious messages. Lastly, is the period we study now. So far, I see from Salimbene the questioning of the "most holy" pope, using the concepts of scripture and reason, both of which he seems deeply familiar with, to do. New reformist orders are prominent and the different interperatations of Christianity seem to each be strong, yet still strongly accept the Roman papal authority. I think many people see the "medieval age" as a loss of individualism and a move towards Christian communities. Yet, we have seen that often times, it is a few individuals like Augustine, or Gregory that teach and impose Christianity on communities that are often conscerned with many very individualistic things. Joinville and Salimbene are clearly highly educated and while their conscerns are diferent than ours, and the period that immediately follows them, they are not lacking in enlightened or intelligent views. In fact, Medieval is a misnomer. This period could be split up and analysed into several different periods time and time again. Out of this period develops nations, and that is about the only thing other than religion I can see that joins it together as one age.