Practice Questions- Renaissance Flashcards
What was the effect of Black Death?
-The Black Death, a devasting pandemic of bubonic plaqe, had profound effect on medieval society. It resulted in the deaths of millions of people, leading to labor shortages and economic disruption. The scarcity of workers led to higher wages for laborers and increased opportunities for social mobility. The decline in population also contributed to the decline of feudalism and the rise of centralized monarchies.
How did the Black Death change the worldview of serfs and freeman?
-The Black Death challenged traditions beliefs about mortality and divine providence, leading to increased skepticism and questioning of religious authority. It also highlighted the vulnerability of human life and the fragilty of social structures, leading to greater awareness of social inequality and injustice. For serfs and freemen, the Black Death may have fostered a sense of empowerment and autonomy as they gained bargaining power and leverage in their relationships with feudal lords and landowners.
How was the serfs worldview limited
Serfs worldviews were limited by their lack of education and exposure to the outside world. they were often illiterate and had limited access to information beyond their immediate surroundings. Serfs’ lives were centered around their work and obligations to their lord, leaving little time or opportunity for intellectual or cultural pursuits. Their worldview was shaped by the religious beliefs and social norms of medieval society, which emphasized hierarchy, obedience, and the acceptance of ones station in life.
What challenges faced the feudal system? Which had the most significant impact and why?
A. Political fragmentation- The feudal system was characterized by decentralized political authority, with power fragmented among numerous lords and vassals. This fragmentation- led to instability, conflicts, and rivalries between feudal lords, undermining centralized governance.
B. Social Inequality- Feudal society was hierarchical, with a rigid class structure that placed nobles and clergy at the top and peasants at the bottom.This social inequality led to tensions and discontent among lower classes, contributing to peasant revolts and social unrest.
C. Economics stagnation- The feudal economy was largely agrarian and self-sufficient, with limited opportunities for economic growth and development. Feudal obligations, such as serfdom and manorial ism, hindered innovation, investment, and entrepreneurship, stifling economic progress.
D. External threats- The feudal system faced external threats- from invasions, raids, and conflicts with neighboring kingdoms and empires. These external pressures further destabilized feudal societies and undermined the security and stability of the system.
What was the effect of the Black Death on the economy?
The Black Death caused widespread death and devastation, leading to labor shortages and economic disruption. The scarcity of workers resulted in higher wages for laborers and increased bargaining power for peasants and workers. Landowners and feudal lords faced difficulties in finding laborers to work on their estates, leading to a decline in agricultural output and productivity. The economic impact of the Black Death contributed to the decline of feudalism and the restricting of medieval society.
What was the view of religion and church during the Renaissance?
During the Renaissance, there was a shift in attitudes towards religion and the church. Humanist scholars promoted a more secular worldview that emphasized human reason, individualism, and the pursuit of knowledge. Renaissance thinkers questioned religious authority and traditional beliefs, leading to criticism of the church’s corruption, wealth, and political influence. Despite these criticisms, religion remained an integral part of Renaissance society, and the church continued to play a significant role in cultural, social, and political life.
How did this change happen?
a. HUMANISM- Emphasis on human potential led to questioning traditional religious authority.
b. PRINTING PRESS- spread of ideas challenged established church doctrines.
c. SCIENTIFIC ADVANCEMENTS- New discoveries contradicted some religious teachings, leading to skepticism.
Name 3 reasons why Italy became a center for trade during the Renaissance.
a. Geographical location- Situated at the crossroads of Europe asia and Africa, Italy had strategic access to trade routes.
b. Wealthy patrons- Wealthy Italian families like the Medici invested in trade, fostering economic growth.
c. Urbanization- Italian cities like Venice and Florence became hubs of commerce due to their thriving economies and infrastructure.
Why did they trade?
To acquire goods and resources not available locally. To satisfy demand for luxury items. To foster economic growth and accumulate wealth.
Why were some city-states more successful than others?
a. Geographical Advantage: Access to trade routes and natural resources
b. Political stability- Effective governance and diplomatic relations.
c. Economics Diversification- Thriving trade, industry, and finance sectors.
What were the main inspirations for humanism?
Classical antiquity- Renewed interest in the literature, philosophy, and art of ancient Greece and Rome.
Individualism- Focus on human potential and achievements.
Secularism- Shift towards worldly concerns rather than solely religious ones
Explain why portraits became important during this time.
Individualism- Portraits allowed for the depiction and celebration of individuals unique personalities and status
Rise of patronage- Wealthy patrons commissioned portraits to showcase their wealth, power and cultural sophistication.
Technological advancements- Improved techniques in painting and the availability of affordable portraits made them more accessible.
How does a portrait express humanism?
Portraits emphasize the individuals humanity, capturing their likeness, emotions, and personality. They showcase the subjects intellect, achievements, and status, reflecting humanist values of individualism and human potential. Portraits often incorporate symbols of learning, wealth, or societal statues, reinforcing the importance of human accomplishments.
Analyze three pictures from the Renaissance unit and explain how they reflect the humanist worldview
Leonardo da Vinci’s ‘Mona Lisa’- Portrays individualism through the enigmatic smile and gaze of the subject, reflecting the complexity of human emotions and intellect.
Sandro Botticelli’s “the birth of Venus”- Celebrates the beauty of the human form, inspired by classical mythology, highlighting the humanist appreciation for art and aesthetics.
Michelangelo “David”; Depicts the idealized human form with a focus on physical perfection and inner strength, symbolizing the humanist belief in the potential for greatness within each individual.
