postclassical

Postclassical is a term used in historiography and related fields to denote a period that follows classical antiquity and precedes the early modern era. It is used to describe broad patterns across regions, but its exact dates and features vary by place.

In Western historiography the postclassical era is often dated roughly from the collapse of ancient Rome around the 5th century to the onset of the Renaissance around the 15th century, though some scholars extend into the 16th century. In other regions, postclassical timelines align with different historical milestones; for example, in the Islamic world the period includes the late antique/early medieval centuries, the Islamic Golden Age, and the Mongol era; in East Asia it may cover the intervals between late classical dynasties and early modern states.

Common themes include the expansion of long-distance trade networks such as the Silk Road and Indian Ocean routes; major religious and cultural transformations including the spread of Islam and Buddhism, and the Christian church's reorganization; the rise of new political systems and states, such as feudal structures in parts of Europe and centralized empires elsewhere; and the transmission and adaptation of knowledge through manuscript culture, scholastic centers, and early universities.

Scholars caution that the term is Eurocentric and can obscure regional diversity and non-linear historical development. Some regions experienced continuity from classical eras or transitions that do not align with European models of feudalism or state formation. Alternative regional terms include medieval, late antique, and early modern.

See also: Medieval period; Late antiquity; Early modern period.