Updated History Exam Flashcards
(55 cards)
What is Humanism, and how did Francesco Petrarch contribute to it?
Humanism is a belief system that emphasizes the potential and abilities of humans, celebrating their talents as a gift from God. Francesco Petrarch (1304-1374) was a key figure in creating this movement, challenging the idea that everything good happened solely due to God’s will. He believed humanity represented perfection and should use their gifts in service to God. He also emphasized the importance of language, particularly Latin and Greek, as living entities that could grow and evolve.
What were the key features of the University of Bologna in the 14th century?
The University of Bologna (c. 1350) was known for its focus on the Liberal Arts, including subjects like Mathematics, Law, Philosophy, Algebra, Art, History, and Religion. It attracted wealthy men who sent their sons for education. The term ‘Liberal’ comes from the Latin word Liber, meaning free or a book. Education at these universities was crucial for gaining knowledge and status, but women were often excluded, receiving private tutoring instead.
What role did women play in Humanism, and what was the educational disparity between men and women?
Women were largely excluded from universities, but Humanism provided some opportunities for them through private tutoring. They were taught Latin and Greek, enabling them to translate original texts while men learned from multiple translations of translations. Despite these educational challenges, women like Christine de Pizan wrote about gender equality and the abilities of women, challenging the societal norms of the time.
How did the Medici family and Giovanni Domenici relate to Humanism?
Giovanni Domenici, a cleric and member of the Dominicans, opposed Humanism, arguing that it was incompatible with Christianity and devalued religious values. The Medici family, particularly Cosimo Medici, supported Humanism. Cosimo was a wealthy banker who played a major role in funding the arts and education in Florence, helping establish the Medici family’s power. Despite his eventual blindness, Cosimo is said to have expressed that he was ‘preparing for eternity.’
Why was Joan of Arc burned at the stake?
Joan of Arc was burned at the stake because she was declared a witch and a heretic, but in reality, it was because she wore male clothing.
When did the Hundred Years’ War end, and what happened afterward?
The Hundred Years’ War ended in 1453 with the Battle of Castillon. After continuous losses, England withdrew from France, and the war officially ended after 163 years of fighting. France began rebuilding its countryside.
What is an Absolute Monarch?
An Absolute Monarch is a ruler who holds absolute power, with no limits on their authority.
What happened to Constantinople in 1453?
In 1453, the Byzantine Empire fell when Mehmed II attacked Constantinople. He used giant cannons and brought ships over the metal chain that protected the city. Constantinople was captured and became Istanbul.
What happened to the Hagia Sophia after Constantinople fell?
After Constantinople fell to the Ottomans in 1453, the Hagia Sophia, once the largest Christian church, was converted into a mosque by the Muslims.
What happened to Henry IV and Henry V in England?
Henry IV was often sick and ruled mostly from bed. After his death, Henry V took over and became known as one of England’s greatest kings. Shakespeare wrote a play about him, making Henry V a legendary figure. Between 1413 and 1415, he won many battles, including the Battle of Agincourt.
What was the significance of the Battle of Agincourt?
The Battle of Agincourt took place in 1415 between the French (50,000+ troops) and the English (8,000+ troops). Despite being outnumbered, the English won due to their use of the longbow and the rain, which made the French cavalry ineffective. Henry V gave a famous speech before the battle to inspire his troops, and the victory became legendary.
What was the Treaty of Troyes, and what did it mean for England and France?
The Treaty of Troyes (1420) was an agreement between England and France that gave England control of France after Charles VI’s death. It stated that Henry V would marry French Princess Catherine of Valois and become King of France. However, after Henry V died from dysentery, his son, Henry VI, became king, leading to the resumption of the war.
How did Jeanne d’Arc (Joan of Arc) help France in the war?
Jeanne d’Arc, a young peasant girl from Domrémy, claimed to have been sent by God to lead France to victory. She convinced the Dauphin, Charles VII, to give her control of the army. She led France to win several key battles, which boosted French morale and angered the English, who believed she was divinely inspired.
What happened to Henry VI after Henry V’s death?
After Henry V’s death, his son, Henry VI, became king. However, Henry VI showed signs of mental illness (possibly Porphyria, like his grandfather Charles VI). His reign led to further conflict, and the war with France resumed. Despite his young age, Henry VI’s rule was troubled and eventually led to civil unrest.
What was the significance of the Schism during Urban VI’s papacy?
The Great Schism was a division in the Catholic Church where Urban VI (in Rome) and Clement VII (in Avignon) were both declared pope, leading to confusion and conflict. Urban excommunicated Clement, and vice versa, which caused a split in Europe, making it hard for people to trust the church.
What happened during the Council of Pisa in 1409?
The Council of Pisa aimed to end the Schism by electing a new pope, Alexander V. However, both Urban VI and Clement VII refused to recognize the new pope, resulting in three popes (Rome, Avignon, and Pisa) and further deepening the schism.
What was Wat Tyler’s role in the English Peasant Revolt of 1381?
Wat Tyler led the English Peasant Revolt in 1381, which started as a peaceful protest against high taxes and poor living conditions. It turned violent after Tyler was killed by the mayor of London during a meeting with King Richard II, leading to the deaths of many peasants.
Who was John Wyclif, and what were his beliefs?
John Wyclif was a theologian and leader of the Lollards, a group that criticized the church’s wealth and practices. He rejected the idea of transubstantiation (the belief that bread and wine become the body and blood of Christ) and argued for reforms within the church.
What was the importance of Gregory XI’s papacy and his decision to move the church?
Gregory XI moved the papacy back to Rome from Avignon in 1377, following advice from Catherine of Siena. The church’s return to Rome was seen as a restoration of its power, but Gregory XI died before the move could be fully completed, leaving the church divided once again.
What was the doctrine of Transubstantiation, and what was Wyclif’s view on it?
Transubstantiation is the belief that during Communion, the bread and wine become the actual body and blood of Christ. John Wyclif rejected this idea, arguing that it was not true and challenging the church’s teachings on the Eucharist.
Who were St. Rochus and St. Sebastian, and how were they linked to the plague?
St. Rochus and St. Sebastian were early Christian martyrs. People believed that praying to them could help stop the plague. St. Sebastian was killed by arrows while tied to a tree, and people saw his suffering as a connection to the plague’s spread.
What was the significance of pilgrimage during medieval times?
Pilgrimages were trips to holy sites for prayers, offerings, and spiritual change. However, pilgrims were often vulnerable to robbery, making these trips dangerous. Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales features a famous pilgrimage to St. Thomas Becket’s shrine.
Why was Jean le Bon of France known as ‘John II – The Good’?
Jean le Bon was known for being a decent and hedonistic king who enjoyed relaxation and luxury. However, his lack of interest in war contrasted with Edward III of England, leading to less military engagement during his reign, especially after 1350.
What happened at the Battle of Poitiers in 1356?
At the Battle of Poitiers, Edward the Black Prince (son of Edward III) and King John II of France met on the battlefield. The French, including crossbowmen, were defeated, and King John was captured, marking a major English victory and the beginning of French instability.
