University assignment. Can you help steer me in the right direction? (Byzantine/High Middle Ages)

by siggaligga

Ill be completely honest with you, /r/AskHistorians. I posted my whole assignment as a question here a few days ago without really thinking it through. Didn't get any answers. I read the rules about homework, and I now feel like an idiot.

So, I am sorry. I have learned.

So, that being said, I would really appreciate if you could steer me in the right direction as to what I should focus on when writing this essay.

The assignment is as follows:

"What were the differences between the Byzantine Empire and the European monarchies between year 1000-1200?"

After reading up on it, I have come up with these main factors that I'm thinking of including:

  • The weak feudal state vs the stronger Byzantine Emperor
  • The East–West Schism
  • A more defined Europe rising in power under a strong and centralized catholic church vs a declining Byzantine empire from outer influences
  • Geographical differences, easier/stronger to hold territories
  • Economic and cultural differences

Do you have anything I should add or remove? Its highly appreciated!

butter_milk

Where did you come up with these? Actual research, or just thinking about what you think you know about the Middle Ages and Byzantium? And what class is this for?

moartuba

I think you should include the powers the Byzantine Empire had traded with and more or less partnered with during that time including formation of the Slavs and how their connection was prompted on religion and how the difference in religion was a barrier for eastern european tribes and trading to eastern europe