Renaissance/Reformation Study Guide

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts from the Renaissance and Reformation periods.

Humanism

A cultural and intellectual movement during the Renaissance that emphasized the study of the classics, human values, and the importance of individual achievements.

Reformation

A religious movement in the 16th century that led to the establishment of Protestant churches and a challenge to Catholic authority.

Indulgence

A grant by the Catholic Church that offered forgiveness of sins in exchange for payment or good works.

Lutheran

The branch of Protestantism founded by Martin Luther, emphasizing justification by faith alone.

Anglican

Relating to the Church of England, established by Henry VIII, distinct for its combination of Protestant and Catholic elements.

Council of Trent

A key part of the Counter-Reformation where the Catholic Church sought to address issues and clarify doctrine.

95 Theses

A list of propositions for an academic disputation written by Martin Luther, criticizing the Catholic Church's practices.

Printing Press

A revolutionary technology developed by Johannes Gutenberg that enabled the mass production of books and spread of information.

Secularism

The principle of separating religion from political, social, and educational systems.

Petrarch

An Italian scholar and poet who is often considered the father of Humanism.

Counter-Reformation

The Catholic Church's response to the Protestant Reformation, aimed at reforming the church and reaffirming Catholic doctrine.

Jesuits

Members of the Society of Jesus, founded by Ignatius of Loyola, known for their missionary work and educational contributions.

Heresy

Beliefs or opinions that deviate from established religious doctrine, especially in the context of Christianity.

Machiavelli

An Italian diplomat and philosopher of the Renaissance known for his political treatise, 'The Prince', which outlines pragmatic approaches to governance.

Military Strategy

The planning and execution of tactics in warfare, including the use of environment and weapons.

Henry VIII

Known for his six marriages and the English Reformation, which led to the establishment of the Church of England.

Edward VI

The son of Henry VIII and Jane Seymour, Edward VI became king at a young age.

Ruled for only six years before his death.

Mary Tudor

Also known as Mary I, she was the daughter of Henry VIII and Catherine of Aragon.

Earned her the nickname "Bloody Mary" for her persecution of Protestants.

Elizabeth I

Known for her strong leadership during the Elizabethan era and the defeat of the Spanish Armada.

Annul

To declare a marriage invalid, as if it never occurred.

Martin Luther

German MonkHe is viewed as a pivotal figure in the Protestant Reformation, advocating for salvation by faith alone. Rejected the sale of indulgences

Challenging the Catholic Church's practices and doctrines, especially through his Ninety-Five Theses.

Protestant

Relating to Christians who broke away from the Catholic Church during the Reformation, emphasizing faith and scripture.

Jan Hus

Criticized the Catholic church and considered a heretic. Wanted to have the church lead by the bible and not a priest

John Wycliffe

An English theologian and scholar who criticized church corruption and translated the Bible into English.

Considered an early reformer whose ideas influenced later reformers like Martin Luther.

Inquisition

A series of inquisitorial procedures and interrogations used by the Catholic Church to combat heresy and maintain orthodoxy.

Vernacular

The language or dialect spoken by the ordinary people in a particular country or region

Oil Paint

Oil paint became prominent during the Renaissance, enabling artists to achieve greater depth and realism in their work.

Brunelleschi

an Italian architect and engineer, celebrated for designing the dome of the Florence Cathedral, which exemplified Renaissance architecture and engineering innovations.

Gutenberg

Known for inventing the printing press in Europe

Characteristics of the Renaissance

Revival of interest in classical art, literature, and humanism, characterized by advancements in various fields such as art, science, and philosophy.

Religious Wars

conflicts in Europe during the Reformation era, driven by religious differences between Catholics and Protestants.

Patrons

Individuals or organizations that support artists and scholars, often financially, to promote the arts and education during the Renaissance.

Trade

Contributed to the economic and cultural growth during the Renaissance, facilitating connections between different regions.

Women and Protestantism

Advocated for literacy and education, allowed to engage more directly in religious discussions and reforms.

Rise of the Middle Class

The emergence of a social class that gained wealth and influence during the Renaissance, largely due to trade and commerce, leading to increased support for the arts and education.