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To say that the Middle Ages (Dark Ages) were a technological boom time is not quite accurate. There were inventions, sure, but Europe was constantly at war from the fall of Rome up until the 19th century and beyond. The science of the period was predominantly focused on military. Most non-military technologies arrived either from other parts of the world (Asia), or after 1500, such as the printing press. In fact, many Ancient technologies were lost during the period. One of the great secret weapons of Rome was concrete. It disappeared after the fall and wasn't rediscovered until the industrial age. City planning was also a common practise, but disappeared until the 20th century.
As far as brutality is concerned, Rome was bad. Slaves were sacrificed for the entertainment of the people, but twisted as it sounds, they were celebrity while they lived. Some people actually wanted to become gladiators. It may have been instant death for many, but it was instant fame for some.
The brutality of the Dark Ages is notorious. While the Romans took great pride in torturing their enemies, the Church ans Warlords of later made them pale in comparison. Torture techniques were perfected and became a way of life. A trial for a thief was simple. Put a stone ainto a pot of boiling oil and let him get it with his bare hands. If they got burned, they were clearly guilty and were tortured and killed.
Just a thought.
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To be one with the Universe is to be very lonely - John Doe - Datalinks
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