FALL OF THE ROMAN EMPIRE

Although there are many theories regarding the decline of the Roman Empire, popular history generally accepts the date 476 AD as the end of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Middle Ages. Christianity slowly replaces pagan culture, and education enters a state of decline. Once seen as a way to capture ideal forms and beauty, the arts sole purpose during the Middle Ages is to honor God and to communicate the “truths” of the Gospel.