Unit II: The Age of Reformation Study Guide

These flashcards cover key concepts and events related to the Age of Reformation from the unit study guide, aiding in understanding social, political, and religious changes of the 16th and 17th centuries.

What societal changes occurred at the start of the 16th century?

Society was characterized by established traditional structures, but faced pressures from emerging reformist ideas.

What were the central ideas of the Protestant reformers?

Key ideas included justification by faith, the priesthood of all believers, and the authority of Scripture.

How did the political situation in Germany influence the Reformation?

The division of the Holy Roman Empire and the political fragmentation encouraged various local reforms and expressions.

How did Protestant views differ and how were they similar?

While differing in interpretations of faith and governance, all sought reform away from Catholic practices.

What was the Anabaptist response to Luther and Calvin?

Anabaptists sought radical reforms, including adult baptism and separation from state influence.

How did the German peasants respond to the Reformation?

They sought social justice using Luther's ideas but faced opposition, leading to the Peasants War.

What was Luther's view on wealth?

Luther viewed wealth suspiciously and emphasized that it should be used for the benefit of society and the church.

What sparked criticism of the Catholic Church during the Reformation?

Critics pointed to corruption, clerical abuses, and the call for a return to simpler, biblical Christianity.

What was the significance of the Huguenots during the Reformation?

They represented French Protestantism and faced persecution under Catholic monarchs, influencing French religious conflicts.

What role did the printing press play in the Reformation?

It facilitated the rapid spread of reformed ideas and literature, including the Bible in vernacular languages.

How did Protestant ideas spread beyond Germany?

Through trade routes, political alliances, and exiled communities establishing churches in new regions.

How did the Anabaptists view church-state relations?

They advocated for complete separation, rejecting any state control over religious practices.

What was the outcome of the French Wars of Religion?

Conflicts intensified the division between Catholics and Protestants, ultimately leading to governmental reforms.

What was the Edict of Nantes?

A decree that granted religious tolerance to Huguenots, intended to maintain peace in France.

What was the Peace of Westphalia?

It ended the Thirty Years' War and recognized the sovereignty of states, leading to the decline of the Holy Roman Empire.

What was the Puritan movement?

A reformist group within England that aimed to purify the Church of England from remnants of Catholicism.

How did states exploit religious conflicts for political gain?

By aligning with one denomination over another, states could secure allegiance and resources from the populace.

What were the criticisms of anticlericalism?

Anticlericalism expressed objection to the excesses and corruption within the clergy, calling for reform.

How was the role of the Holy Office defined in Reformation society?

As the central ecclesiastical authority in combating heresy and maintaining Catholic orthodoxy.

What were the vernacular Bibles, and why were they important?

Bibles translated into local languages made Scripture accessible to the common people, promoting individual interpretation.