Medieval Europe IDs – Chapters 9-11

Flashcards covering major people, events, and concepts from medieval European history discussed in the lecture notes.

In the Middle Ages, what was the aristocracy and why was it historically significant?

A hereditary ruling class that held social, political, and economic power; it controlled the feudal system that shaped medieval governance, land ownership, and warfare.

During the Middle Ages, what code of conduct governed knights and noble warriors and what were its key principles?

Chivalry—a code emphasizing bravery, loyalty, honor, and respect for women and the Church; it legitimized the warrior elite and influenced European literature and social expectations.

Which new economic class emerged in medieval towns between nobles and peasants, and how did its rise impact feudalism?

The bourgeoisie—middle-class merchants, craftsmen, and professionals; their growth weakened feudalism and laid the groundwork for capitalism and urban expansion.

What were medieval guilds and what role did they play in town economies?

Associations of artisans and merchants that regulated production, training, and standards; they protected members' economic interests, stabilized local economies, and ensured quality control.

Which medieval method of learning, championed by thinkers like Thomas Aquinas, blended classical philosophy with Christian theology?

Scholasticism—a university teaching approach that promoted rational inquiry and shaped modern academic debate.

What architectural style characterized by pointed arches, ribbed vaults, flying buttresses, and stained glass dominated church construction in medieval France and England?

Gothic architecture, which showcased the Church’s wealth and power.

Who invaded and conquered England in 1066 CE, and how did this event transform English society?

William of Normandy (William the Conqueror); his conquest reshaped English culture, law, and language, and established a strong monarchy.

What 1215 charter signed by King John of England limited royal power and advanced constitutional principles?

The Magna Carta, an early step toward constitutional government that influenced later legal systems by guaranteeing feudal rights and restricting the crown.

What was the Reconquista (111-1492 CE) and why was it historically significant?

A series of Christian campaigns to reclaim the Iberian Peninsula from Muslim Moors; it ended Islamic rule in Spain, enabled Spanish unification, and set the stage for global empire building.

Which German emperor (1155-1190 CE) sought to consolidate imperial authority and expand into Italy, symbolizing medieval imperial ambition?

Frederick I Barbarossa; his struggles highlighted the fragmentation of the Holy Roman Empire.

Which 11th-century pope (1073-1085 CE) asserted papal authority over secular rulers, strengthening the Church’s power?

Pope Gregory VII, whose reforms defended church independence and enhanced papal authority.

Between 1096 and 1291 CE, what series of military expeditions did European Christians launch, and what were their broader effects?

The Crusades—attempts to reclaim the Holy Land from Muslim control; they stimulated trade and cultural exchanges between Europe and the Middle East.

What pandemic devastated Europe from 1347 to 1351 and what social consequences followed?

The Black Death (bubonic plague); it caused massive population loss, labor shortages, weakened feudalism, raised peasant wages, and triggered social, economic, and religious upheaval.

What prolonged conflict between England and France (1337-1453 CE) reshaped medieval warfare and national identities?

The Hundred Years’ War; it strengthened national identities, led to the decline of knights in favor of professional armies, and advanced military technology.

Which young French peasant girl (1412-1431 CE) became a military leader and national heroine during the Hundred Years’ War?

Joan of Arc, whose leadership brought key victories and boosted French nationalism.

What was the Great Schism (1378-1417 CE) within the Catholic Church, and what was its impact?

A division with rival popes in Rome and Avignon; it weakened the Church’s authority, damaged its credibility, and fueled calls for reform.