"The thousands of years of the medieval period offer some fascinating facts--for example, that approximately 80 percent of the population was directly involved in food production. As illustrated by Eleanor of Aquitaine, the individuals of the period are no less intriguing: she accompanied her first husband on crusade and later ransomed her son Richard the Lionhearted and personally escorted him home. [This book] brings key events and individuals alive to enrich and stimulate students in challenging and enjoyable ways. Students from high school to college will be able to get a jump start on assignments with the hundreds of term paper projects and research information offered here. Each event entry begins with a brief summary to pique interest and then offers original and thought-provoking term paper ideas in both standard and alternative formats that often incorporate the latest in electronic media, such as the iPod and iMovie. The best primary and secondary sources for further research are annotated, followed by vetted, stable website suggestions and multimedia resources--usually films--for further viewing and listening."--Cover, p. [4].