What type of society primarily characterized the Dark Ages in Western Europe?

The Dark Ages, often referring to the early medieval period following the fall of the Roman Empire, is characterized by a predominantly divided and rural society. During this time, much of the infrastructure that had been developed by the Romans deteriorated, leading to a significant decline in urban centers. Instead of thriving towns with commerce and culture, many people lived in small, isolated communities primarily engaged in agriculture.

Feudalism became the dominant social system, where land was owned by lords and worked by peasants or serfs, which further contributed to social divisions. This rural lifestyle meant that mobility was limited, and regional identities often took precedence over a cohesive national identity. Consequently, societal organization was fragmented compared to the previous Roman structure.

Understanding this context highlights the significance of the transition from urban sophistication to rural instability and division during the Dark Ages, which ultimately laid the groundwork for later developments in European society.