Role of Religion in Government and Byzantine History

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts regarding the intertwining of religion and governance, as well as significant historical events and figures from Byzantine history.

Excommunication

The act of officially removing someone from the church, barring them from receiving sacraments and leading to the belief they would go to hell.

Crusade

A military expedition initiated by the pope to reclaim holy lands, like the Fourth Crusade which resulted in the sacking of Constantinople.

Charlemagne

King of the Franks who was crowned as the Holy Roman Emperor by the pope, causing conflict with the Byzantine Empire.

Feudalism

A political system based on a hierarchy of relationships where land is exchanged for military service and loyalty.

Manorialism

An economic system that focused on the organization of rural economies, specifically how land was used for agricultural profit.

Byzantine Empire

The continuation of the Eastern Roman Empire, known for its complex interactions with Western Europe and various invasions.

Seljuq Turks

A group that threatened the Byzantine Empire by expanding into Anatolia, impacting their grain supply.

Beringian Guard

An elite bodyguard unit in the Byzantine Empire made up of Vikings, established to foster diplomatic relations and military strength.

Vassal

A person who has an obligation to a lord in exchange for land, typically involving military service and loyalty.

Normans

Descendants of Vikings who settled in Northern France and expanded their influence into Italy and Byzantine territories.

Mechanical pressure on the Byzantine Empire

External threats from Western European forces, Viking raids from the North, and the advancing Seljuq Turks from the East.

Hagia Sophia

A magnificent cathedral in Constantinople that influenced Prince Vlad of the Rus' in adopting Orthodox Christianity.