With further investigation of Europe at the turn of the millennium, it appears that the years commonly referred to as the “dark ages” were anything but dark. In fact, for several reasons, they should be considered exactly the opposite. Contrary to what the term "dark ages" suggests, the years 500-1300 were a period of growth and prosperity in Europe. Specifically during the year 1000, European society saw numerous advances in agriculture, medicine, and combat. All this ultimately benefited their economic value and general culture. For these reasons, academic sources should demolish the term “dark ages” as it is incredibly misleading. Medieval European society was one of several improvements. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The most important improvement would be in nutrition. Advances in agriculture and eating habits were one of the greatest successes of that period. Europeans saw many advances in the cultivation of grains, vegetation, and livestock (Lacey & Danziger, p. 58), allowing them to have a wide variety in their diet. The variation not only contributed to a rich culinary culture, but often told of one's social status and wealth. The type of animal they ate indicated their height. While farmers feasted on mutton and pork, the wealthy of the time hosted large feasts that included luxury meats such as chickens, ducks, pigeons, and deer (Lacy, p. 58). There was also an abundant assortment of greenery available to guests. Innovations in fishing were also observed, further contributing to the food wealth of the time (Lacey, p. 59). Alcohol production was also successful (Lacey, p. 62). Such great culinary diversity supported the cultural and economic development of the time. There is substantial evidence that people of the Dark Ages had extensive knowledge of nutrition and dietary needs. These culinary advances suggest that people of the time lived rich and fulfilling lives. Abundant food was the sign of a prosperous and wealthy society. Further advances in healthcare demonstrate that the dark ages were a time of success and virtue. Many people of the time experimented with herbs and used the power of faith to ritually cleanse their bodies. All natural remedies were created for conditions such as shingles, back pain, baldness and poisonous insect bites (Lacey, pg. 126-127). Herbal remedies and prayers were used to cure the sick. Although they were not aware of germ theory, they knew about contagions and diseases and therefore practiced proper hygiene (Lacey, p. 121). There is also evidence of the use of “medieval morphine” in such medical practices and surgeries so that the patient would feel nothing (Lacey, p. 127). Human anatomy was also explored. They understood the internal and external workings of the body and rehearsed treatments to the best of their ability. There is also evidence of adequate knowledge of fetal development and the procedure known as modern abortion (Lacey, p. 123). It can be said with certainty that the men of the year 1000 were on the verge of a scientific revolution. Such medical advances in ancient times cannot possibly mark the dark ages. These advances in medicine through herbal remedies, proper hygiene, pain relief, and anatomical exploration demonstrate that the period was one of scientific gratification and enlightenment. Further social progress was seen on the battlefield. There is evidence of.