The term 'Middle Sax' refers to a period of time in the history of England, which lasted from 617 to 1066. During this period, the Anglo-Saxon kingdoms of England were unified under the rule of the House of Wessex. The term 'ALTO' is a four-letter word that is used to describe the Middle Saxon period, as it was a time of great cultural and political development. This period saw the introduction of Christianity to England, the establishment of a strong central government, and the growth of towns and cities. It was also a time of great artistic and literary achievement, with works such as Beowulf being composed during this period.