Overview
This lecture covers developments in Europe from 1200 to 1450, focusing on political structures, social hierarchies, religious influences, economic changes, and cultural movements such as the Renaissance.
Political and Social Structures
- The Middle Ages in Western Europe were marked by feudalism: a system where land was exchanged for loyalty and service.
- Feudal hierarchies consisted of kings, lords, knights, and peasants, with obligations of service and protection.
- The manor system enabled villages to be economically self-sufficient and provided local defense.
- Monarchies in France and England grew stronger, creating bureaucracies and centralizing power, especially after events like the signing of the Magna Carta.
- The Estates General in France and the English Parliament represented different social classes but held limited power compared to the monarch.
Economic and Technological Developments
- Most wealth was land-based; agriculture was the main source of income.
- Innovations like the three-field system and new plows increased agricultural productivity and population.
- Growing trade and the rise of a merchant middle class (bourgeoisie) led to urban growth and social change.
Religious Influence and Conflict
- The Roman Catholic Church dominated religious and intellectual life, providing education and social cohesion.
- The church hierarchy had significant power, sometimes influencing or opposing secular rulers.
- The Great Schism in 1054 split Christianity into Roman Catholic and Orthodox branches.
- The Crusades were military campaigns aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land, which fostered cultural and economic exchanges with the Middle East.
Society and Culture
- The Black Death in the 14th century killed about a third of the European population, increasing labor demand and serf bargaining power.
- Anti-Semitism and discrimination against Jews and Muslims led to their expulsion or migration within Europe.
- Women’s rights diminished, but women could participate in religious life and certain guilds; rights varied by region and religion.
The Renaissance and Humanism
- The Renaissance saw a renewed interest in Greek and Roman culture, art, and humanist ideas focusing on individual achievement.
- The printing press enabled mass production of literature, spurring literacy and the spread of new ideas.
- Monarchies and powerful families supported the arts, leading to the rise of national identities and centralized governments.
Origins of Russia
- Kiev was a central trade hub connecting Europe and Asia, adopting Orthodox Christianity and maintaining close ties to Byzantium.
- After Mongol rule, Russian independence grew, marking the start of the modern Russian state.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Feudalism — System exchanging land for loyalty and service among social classes.
- Manor System — Self-sufficient villages run by lords, worked by peasants/serfs.
- Three-Field System — Crop rotation method increasing agricultural output.
- Estates General — French advisory body representing clergy, nobility, and commoners.
- Magna Carta — English charter limiting royal power, guaranteeing certain rights.
- Crusades — Religious military campaigns aimed at reclaiming Jerusalem from Muslims.
- Bourgeoisie — Middle class of merchants and artisans.
- Black Death — Bubonic plague pandemic that drastically reduced Europe’s population.
- Renaissance — Period of revived interest in classical culture and the rise of humanism.
- Humanism — Intellectual movement emphasizing human potential and achievements.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review chapter 1.7 to complete Unit 1.
- Study the key terms and their significance for exam preparation.
- Prepare examples of how feudalism, the church, and the Renaissance shaped European society.