Need help with introduction:

The Medieval Period began in 1066 and lasted until 1485. During this time period many literary works were produced. Many writers used their work to reflect the important events of that era. Most influential to literature of that period were the social, historical, political, and religious events.

Topic is: Develop and essay in which you explain how the social, historical, political, and religious events of the time period affected the literature of that era. How does the literature of the time period reflect what is going on in Britain during that time.

First, I wouldn't assign any particular dates to the beginning or end of this particular (or any other!) era. There are various interpretations, depending on which area of Europe you're referring to.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Middle_Ages

Second, the most salient element in Medieval art and literature (what there was) is its religion-based nature -- and the church was the relatively young Roman Catholic Church.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_literature

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_art

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Medieval_architecture

To develop an essay explaining how the social, historical, political, and religious events of the Medieval Period affected the literature of that era, you can follow these steps:

1. Research the social events of the Medieval Period: Start by examining the key social aspects of the time, such as the feudal system, hierarchy, chivalry, and the roles of different classes in society. Look into the daily life, traditions, customs, and values of people during this period.

2. Explore the historical events: Study the major historical events that occurred during the Medieval Period, including the Norman Conquest of England in 1066, the Crusades, the Black Death, and the Hundred Years' War. Understand how these events shaped the political and social landscape of Britain.

3. Analyze the political context: Examine the political structure and changes that took place during this era. Investigate the monarchy, the rise of nobility, the conflicts between kings and barons, and the establishment of parliamentary systems. Assess how these political dynamics influenced the literature created during this time.

4. Examine the religious aspects: Understand the dominant religious beliefs and practices of the Medieval Period, particularly the influence of the Catholic Church. Look into the role of religion in society, the power of the clergy, and the presence of religious themes in literary works.

5. Analyze literature from the Medieval Period: Read and analyze literary works from this era, including epic poems like Beowulf, Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, and Malory's Le Morte d'Arthur. Pay attention to themes, characters, language, and stylistic elements. Identify how these works reflect the social, historical, political, and religious events of the time.

6. Structure your essay: Start with an introduction that provides a brief overview of the Medieval Period and its significance to literature. In the body paragraphs, discuss each of the four influences (social, historical, political, and religious) individually, providing evidence from your research and examples from literary works. Analyze how these influences shaped the literature and connect them to specific events or themes. Finally, conclude by summarizing your points and emphasizing the overall impact of these influences on the literature of the time.

Remember to support your explanations with evidence and examples from both historical research and literary analysis. By thoroughly researching and analyzing the social, historical, political, and religious factors, you will gain a deeper understanding of how they influenced and shaped the literature of the Medieval Period.