The document summarizes key characteristics of Western Europe between 600-1500 CE. During this period, Western Europe experienced less political unity and stronger competition between regions compared to other civilizations. Power was dispersed between political rulers, the Church, and warrior elites. Cities gained more independence and merchants had greater freedom. There was also a growing emphasis on rational thought and a separation of political and religious authority. Some of these trends, like an emphasis on reason, military conflicts between states, and a split in Christianity, continued defining Western Europe after 1400.