Which period is referred to as the Dark Ages of Europe?

The period referred to as the Dark Ages of Europe is the Middle Ages. This term is commonly used to describe the early medieval period that spanned from around the 5th to the late 10th century, following the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The label "Dark Ages" has typically been applied due to a perceived decline in cultural, economic, and intellectual activity during this time as compared to the preceding Roman era and the subsequent Renaissance.

Scholars noted a relative scarcity of historical records and urban life in various regions, leading to this characterization. It is important to recognize that while the term suggests uniform stagnation, some regions experienced significant developments.

The other periods mentioned, such as the Age of Enlightenment, Renaissance, and Industrial Revolution, are known for their advancements in science, philosophy, art, and industry, contrasting sharply with the characteristics often attributed to the Dark Ages. During the Renaissance, for example, there was a resurgence of classical learning and a flourishing of the arts, while the Industrial Revolution marked extensive technological and economic changes. Thus, the Middle Ages accurately aligns with the historical context signified by the term "Dark Ages."