Explain the meaning of the term classical as it applies to periods in history
Classical Europe is where the classical music you think of comes from if that helps any.
Generally refers to Roman and Greek history - more specifically the Athenian Democracy, the Roman Empire, etc. However, it can also extend to the high medieval period - it's loosely defined at best. Ultimately, it depends on context - classical music is from a different time period to classical languages for example - but as a general answer the period of time during which the Roman Empire ruled is most common.