Medieval History Activities

Medieval history is a subject studied in schools, such as junior high school social science classes, high school world history classes and college-level history courses. The medieval time period spans hundreds of years, starting around the year 800 and ending in the 1500s. Adding activities to the class can make it easier for students to understand the subject and makes the subject interesting and enjoyable.

Put on a Play

The medieval era was the time of live plays and performances. A medieval history class can put on a play from the time period in order to understand the politics, thinking patterns and lifestyle of men and women living during the time period. While learning the parts and lines, students can ask questions about the wording and language, which gives a better understanding of the play itself and the medieval time period.

Build a Castle

A model castle is a good activity to understand the structure and basics of castles during the Middle Ages. There are a variety of options for making the castle, ranging from sugar cubes and glue to Styrofoam. Castles were the structures where nobles lived and were often surrounded by peasant towns. During the building of the castle, students can learn about relations between the peasants and nobility as well as the differences between the social classes during the time.

Online Medieval Games

Educational websites often create online medieval games, such as jousting games, which gives a basic understanding of the knights, honor and fighting of medieval life. Knights were a major part of medieval history because medieval warriors fought in wars, battles and tournaments. Allow students to play an online game that follows aspects of medieval life while teaching them the history of medieval battles.

Design a Coat of Arms

A coat of arms was the symbol of a knight's house, lineage and honor. Every knight had a coat of arms to tell everyone who he was and what family he came from. Students can design a personal coat of arms that represent their family and personal history. Students are able to use their creativity and personal preferences. Also have each student write a brief essay that explains the details of his coat of arms.