- The popular portrayal of the medieval era as one of endless famine, war, and ignorance is itself ignorant - overlooking brilliant advances in science, art, and literature. This beautifully illustrated collection illuminates the dark ages, telling the story of the period and of such key figures as Joan of Arc, Marco Polo, and Saladin. Some 15 facsimile documents include the authorization of the use of torture issued by Pope Innocent IV in 1250, pages from the Gutenberg Bible, medieval maps, and illuminated manuscripts.