Get summary, textual answers, solutions, notes, extras, PDF to NBSE Class 11 (Arts) History (Themes in World History) Chapter 8: Changing Cultural Traditions (Focus on Europe 14th to 17th Century). However, the educational materials should only be used for reference and students are encouraged to make necessary changes.
Introduction
The time between the 14th and 17th centuries marked a big change in Europe, as it moved from the Medieval period to modern times. Life in Medieval Europe was very different from life today. People back then were mainly focused on getting ready for the afterlife because the Christian Church said that life on earth wasn’t as important. That’s why people admired monks who spent their time praying, instead of doctors or inventors.
During the Medieval period, people didn’t try to get individual rights, and they didn’t have much freedom to share their opinions or choose their own lifestyles. For example, a person interested in religion could only belong to one Church. Merchants and craftsmen had to be part of guilds to work. Most people were serfs, which meant they were born into a certain way of life and had to stick with it.
Because of this focus on group activities and control, people in the Medieval period didn’t have much personal freedom or self-expression. Their world stayed the same and didn’t change much because they were afraid of new ideas and different ways of living. Nowadays, we experience changes in thoughts, government, and lifestyles much faster than people did during the Medieval times.
Textual questions and answers
Very short answer type questions
1. When did Modern era begin in Europe?
Answer: The Modern era in Europe began in the period from the 14th to the 17th centuries.
2. Write the name of famous paintings of Leonardo Da Vinci.
Answer: “Virgin of the Rocks,” “The Last Supper,” and “Monalisa.”
3. Write the name of the astronomer who established that ‘the sun is the centre of the universe and not the earth’.
Answer: Copernicus.
4. Martin Luther established which Christian sect?
Answer: Protestantism.
5. What is counter Reformism?
Answer: The programme of the Roman Catholic Church aimed at removing the abuses and useless rituals, without causing much disruption. This programme is known as the Catholic Reformation.
Short answer type questions
1. Describe the lives of the medieval people.
Answer: In the Medieval period, people were guided by the idea of otherworldliness, preparing for the afterlife. The Christian Church taught that life on earth was secondary. The ideal man was a monk who spent his life praying. Science made little progress, and education, art, and literature mostly served the Church.
People had no freedom to express their views or live as they wanted. Serfs had fixed roles from birth, with no liberty to change their vocation. Group control was emphasised over individual interests. Society resisted change, living in a static world ruled by customs.
2. What were the essential elements of the rapid development of the Renaissance?
Answer: The essential elements of the Renaissance included:
- Contacts with Muslim and Byzantine civilisations.
- The commercial revolution and interchange of ideas.
- New learning in the 13th century, creating a spirit of enquiry.
- The rise of national monarchies.
- Growth of a wealthy middle class who became patrons of art.
- The printing press, which spread Renaissance ideas quickly.
- The invention of the compass, gunpowder, and maritime exploration, leading to political and intellectual change.
3. What were the reasons of Renaissance Movement?
Answer: The Renaissance was sparked by several factors:
- Contacts with Muslim and Byzantine civilisations, the commercial revolution, and new learning in the 13th century.
- Growing desire in the 14th century for intellectual change.
- Discoveries and inventions, like the printing press, compass, and gunpowder, which expanded knowledge and changed political structures.
- The fall of Constantinople in 1453, bringing Greek scholars to Italy with their ancient manuscripts, reviving interest in Greek texts and philosophy.
4. What was the significance of the Renaissance period in the field of art?
Answer: The Italian Renaissance is known for its achievements in painting, sculpture, and architecture. Artists like Giotto broke from medieval styles, creating more lifelike figures. Florence produced great artists like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael, who developed new techniques in painting. Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel frescoes and Raphael’s paintings of Madonna are iconic.
Venetian artists like Titan excelled in portraiture. In sculpture, Donatello and Michelangelo made significant contributions, with works like “Moses” and “The Pieta” representing the peak of Renaissance art.
5. State the reasons why Christianity was divided into Catholic and Protestants.
Answer: Christianity divided into Catholics and Protestants due to:
- The Renaissance challenging the Church’s authority and focusing on humanism.
- Corruption in the Church, especially among the popes.
- Martin Luther’s attack on indulgences, arguing people didn’t need priests to connect with God.
- The Protestant Revolution spreading across Europe, with churches in Germany and Switzerland breaking from the Catholic Church.
- The Catholic Reformation, which sought to remove abuses and restore the Church’s position without causing disruption.
Long Answer Questions
1. How did the transformation from Medieval Age to Modern Age come in Europe?
Answer: The transformation from the Medieval Age to the Modern Age in Europe occurred between the 14th and 17th centuries. During this time, people became more focused on the world around them, city life grew in importance over agriculture, and strong national governments replaced the feudal system. European explorers discovered new continents and trade routes, expanding their knowledge of the world. This period of change, known as the Renaissance, led to a rediscovery of individualism, with advances in science, art, and thought. The invention of the printing press made books more accessible, and a distinct urban culture emerged, particularly in Italian cities like Florence, Venice, and Rome.
The Renaissance also disrupted religion. Individuals began to question traditional Church beliefs, leading to the Reformation. The moral decay of the Church and the availability of Greek texts spurred discussions that challenged its authority. The Renaissance paved the way for the Reformation by encouraging people to think independently and question established religious doctrines.
2. What were the causes of Renaissance Movement? Describe its main features.
Answer: There were various factors which contributed to the rise and growth of the Renaissance movement.
- Many causes of the Renaissance stemmed from earlier developments, such as European contacts with Muslim and Byzantine civilisations, the commercial revolution which facilitated the exchange of goods and ideas, 13th-century learning fostering a spirit of enquiry, the rise of national monarchies, and a wealthy middle class eager to sponsor art for prestige.
- The 14th century predicted the Renaissance, with growing desire for change and intellectual revolution. Early critics attacked societal abuses, and the Crusades in the 12th and 13th centuries revived a spirit of new life, evident in the development of European literature.
- Discoveries and inventions also paved the way. The printing press spread Renaissance ideas by making books accessible, the Mariner’s Compass boosted maritime activities and broadened European horizons, while gunpowder empowered monarchs, reducing the influence of feudal nobles.
- The capture of Constantinople in 1453 gave a strong boost to the Renaissance. Greek scholars fleeing the Turks brought their manuscripts to Europe, reviving interest in Greek philosophy, law, and ancient texts.
3. Describe the contribution of Humanist writers to literature.
Answer: Humanist writers made significant contributions to literature by reviving interest in classical texts and placing emphasis on human experience. Humanism, distinct from theology, focused on “the human letters,” promoting the study of grammar, rhetoric, poetry, history, and moral philosophy.
Italian writers like Dante showed early signs of Humanistic thought by using the Italian language and drawing inspiration from classical literature. Petrarch was a pivotal figure in the Humanist movement, advocating for a return to classical Latin and introducing new ideals of life that emphasized nature, love, and everyday problems. His love sonnets in the Song Book exemplified Humanism’s focus on human emotions.
By the early 15th century, the term “humanist” referred to scholars who taught classical subjects. Universities, such as Padua, became centers for the revival of Greek and Latin scholarship. Scholars like Manuel Chrysoloras and Pico Della Mirandola worked on Greek and Latin texts, with some even translating the New Testament.
The Platonic Academy in Florence and similar institutions in Rome and Naples played a key role in advancing Humanist ideals, fostering discussions on philosophy, literature, and art, and cultivating a deeper appreciation of classical antiquities. These societies contributed to elevating the classical Renaissance to a high cultural level.
4. Describe the growth of art of painting in Europe from 15th and 17th century.
Answer: The growth of painting in Europe from the 15th to the 17th century was marked by the Italian Renaissance, primarily remembered for its achievements in painting, sculpture, and architecture. Florence and Venice contributed significantly to this development. Giotto, a Florentine artist, was the first to break away from the lifelessness of medieval painting, giving his figures a sense of movement. His masterpiece, “The Flight into Egypt,” exemplifies this shift.
Florence became the art centre of Europe, producing great painters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael. Leonardo advanced the use of perspective and chiaroscuro, with his masterpieces like “Virgin of the Rocks,” “The Last Supper,” and “Monalisa” showing humanity in its universal aspects. Michelangelo focused on man alone, with his Sistine Chapel frescoes portraying powerful human figures. Raphael emphasized form and colour, producing iconic works such as his Madonna paintings.
Venice later replaced Florence as Italy’s art centre, with Titian leading the Venetian school. Titian excelled in portraiture, with notable works such as “The Man in a Red Cap,” and religious paintings like “The Crowning of Thorns.”
In the Netherlands, the Flemish school flourished, with artists like John and Hubert van Eyck producing the “Adoration of the Lamb.” Weyden’s “Descent from the Cross” and Memling’s “Shrine of Saint Ursula” are other notable works. In Germany, Albrecht Durer and Hans Holbein were significant figures. Durer was known for woodcuts, copper engravings, and realistic religious scenes, while Holbein was famous for his secular portraits, including those of prominent English figures during his time in London.
5. Describe the progress of architecture in Europe during the Renaissance period.
Answer: During the Renaissance (14th to 17th centuries), European architecture followed Greek and Roman styles, with a particular focus on classical pillars and domes. This era saw the rise of magnificent buildings, replacing the Gothic style in Europe. Michelangelo began constructing St. Peter’s Church in Rome, the largest church ever built, covering 225,000 square feet, twice the size of Milan’s cathedral or St. Paul’s in London.
Rome became the centre of Renaissance architecture, blending Roman, Gothic, and Byzantine elements. Renaissance architecture, especially in Rome, Venice, and Florence, was marked by domes, columns, arcades, and arches, influenced by classical and Byzantine styles. Key architects like Alberti, Brunelleschi, Bramante, and Michelangelo incorporated Romanesque elements, such as cornices, capitals, and rusticated stone blocks, focusing on the exterior façades.
The construction of St. Peter’s took fifty years, with multiple architects contributing to its design, creating a model for many Western governmental buildings. Milan’s cathedral remained an exception, maintaining a purely Gothic style with slender spires and statues.
6. What was the position of women in Europe during the 15th to 16th centuries?
Answer: During the 15th to 16th centuries, women in Europe had limited roles, especially in public life. Men from aristocratic families dominated both public and family affairs, educating only their sons for business or public life. Women’s dowries were invested in family businesses, but they had no say in these ventures. Marriages were used to strengthen business alliances, and daughters without sufficient dowries were often sent to convents.
However, women in merchant families held somewhat better positions, helping run shops and businesses when male members were absent. Merchant widows played a more public role than those in aristocratic families.
In literature, a few women, such as Cassandra Fedele (1465-1558), challenged traditional views on women’s capabilities. Fedele, known for her proficiency in Greek and Latin, questioned the belief that women could not achieve the qualities of a humanist thinker. She, along with other writers, criticised the limited freedoms given to women. The Marchesa of Mantua, another notable figure, ruled her state in her husband’s absence and was part of an intellectual court.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. What was the purpose of sea voyagers?
A. to make profit by trade
B. to gather knowledge about the world
C. world development
D. all the above
Answer: D. all the above
2. According to humanists, the era which begins from the fifteenth century is known as
A. North Middle Ages
B. Middle Age
C. Modern Era
D. Blind Age
Answer: C. Modern Era
3. What did the best sense of physiology, geometry and beauty that gave the new look to Italian art?
A. Romanticism
B. Reformism
C. Humanism
D. Realism
Answer: C. Humanism
4. All planets including the Earth revolve around the Sun. Principle is the exponent:
A. Kepler
B. Copernicus
C. Machiavelli
D. Galileo
Answer: B. Copernicus
5. The documents that the church sold for sin free was what was called
A. Sin Confession document
B. Sin Free Document
C. Document of Jesus
D. Apology
Answer: B. Sin Free Document
Competency Based Questions
Multiple Choice Questions II
1. Consider the following statements.
(i) From 14th to 17th centuries there was an increase in urbanisation.
(ii) In 12th century, the Italian cities suffered resuscitation because of the trade between Mongols and China.
(iii) Europe’s first university was established in Italy.
Which statement(s) is/are correct in the above statement?
A. Only statement (i) is correct
B. Only statement (ii) is correct
C. Only statement (iii) is correct
D. All the above statements are correct
Answer: A. Only statement (i) is correct
2. Match the following and select the correct option:
Column A
A. Publication of ‘Utopia’
B. Beginning of the Gregorian calendar
C. Gutenberg invented the printing press
D. Columbus reached America in
E. Petrarch received the title of Poet Laureate in
Options:
(i) 1582
(ii) 1492
(iii) 1341
(iv) 1516
(v) 1455
A. A-(iv), B-(i), C-(v), D-(ii), E-(iii)
B. A-(iv), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(v), E-(i)
C. A-(i), B-(iii), C-(ii), D-(iv), E-(v)
D. A-(i), B-(iv), C-(v), D-(ii), E-(iii)
Answer: A. A-(iv), B-(i), C-(v), D-(ii), E-(iii)
3. Consider the following statements.
(i) In the 14th Century, due to the Arabic translation of Greek texts by some scholars, underlying knowledge collapsed.
(ii) Humanist ideas were disseminated only by texts.
(iii) The desire to become a real picture highlighted the emotional spirit of physiology, geometry, and fun.
Which statement(s) is/are correct in the above statement?
A. Only statement (i) and (ii) are correct
B. Only statement (i) is correct
C. Only statement (ii) and (iii) are correct
D. Only statement (iii) is correct
Answer: D. Only statement (iii) is correct
4. Consider the following statements.
(i) Humanitarian culture has transformed human life into new life.
(ii) Copernicus protested against the Catholic Church.
(iii) Kepler and Galileo popularised the concept of Heliocentric and Circle theory.
(iv) During the 16th century, revolution of printing led to the spread of literature.
Which statement(s) is/are correct in the above statement?
A. Only statement (i) is correct
B. Only statement (i), (iii) and (iv) are correct
C. Only statement (iii) is correct
D. All the above statements are correct
Answer: B. Only statement (i), (iii) and (iv) are correct
5. Which of these statements are true about Cicero?
(i) He was Roman lawyer
(ii) He was Roman essayist
(iii) He was British Officer
(iv) He was contemporary to Julius Caesar.
Which statement(s) is/are correct in the above statement?
A. Only statement (i) and (ii) are true
B. Only statement (ii) and (iii) are true
C. Only statement (iii) is true
D. Only statement (i), (ii) and (iv) are true
Answer: D. Only statement (i), (ii) and (iv) are true
Case-based Question
In 1455, 150 copies of the Bible were printed in the workshop of Johannes Gutenberg (1400-1458), the German who made the first printing press. Earlier, a monk would have taken the same amount of time to write out one copy of the Bible!
By 1500, many classical texts, nearly all in Latin, had been printed in Italy. As printed books became available, it was possible to buy them, and students did not have to depend solely on lecture-notes. Ideas, opinions, and information moved more widely and more rapidly than ever before. A printed book promoting new ideas could quickly reach hundreds of readers. This also made it possible for individuals to read books, since it was possible to buy copies for oneself. This developed the reading habit among people.
1. Who made the first printing press?
Answer: Johannes Gutenberg
2. Name the book which was first printed in 1455.
Answer: The Bible
3. What was the advantage of the printed books to the students?
Answer: It was possible to buy books, and students did not have to depend solely on lecture-notes.
4. What were the benefits of printing to the general readers?
Answer: Ideas, opinions, and information moved more widely and rapidly than ever before. A printed book promoting new ideas could quickly reach hundreds of readers. This also made it possible for individuals to read books since it was possible to buy copies for oneself, thus developing the reading habit among people.
Pictorial Questions
1. Identify the following pictures and write their name.
Answer: A. Praying Hands
B. Michelangelo’s Pieta
2. Study the picture and answer the three questions based on this by choosing the option.
(a) The picture is of which building?
Answer: (ii) Saint Peter’s Church
(b) Who made the design of this building?
Answer: (i) Brunelleschi
(c) Where is this building situated?
Answer: (iii) Vatican City
(d) How many domes are seen in this picture?
Answer: (i) 1
Extra/additional questions and answers
1. How was life in the Medieval period different from modern Europe?
Answer: Life in the Medieval period was guided by other worldliness, meaning people were primarily concerned with preparing for the next life, in contrast to the focus on the present in modern Europe.
57. How did the changing position of women reflect the broader societal transformations during the Renaissance?
Answer: The position of women during the Renaissance reflects the broader societal transformations taking place, particularly in terms of intellectual and public life.
- Aristocratic Women: In aristocratic families, women were largely excluded from public life and decision-making. Dowries were invested in family businesses, but women had no say in these affairs, and those without adequate dowries were often sent to convents. They were seen primarily as keepers of the household.
- Merchant Women: Women in merchant families fared somewhat better. They often helped run shops or manage the business when their husbands were away, and widows played an active role in public life, especially compared to their aristocratic counterparts.
- Intellectual Contributions: Some women, however, began to challenge these traditional roles. For instance, Cassandra Fedele, a Venetian scholar, was known for her proficiency in Greek and Latin and questioned the belief that women were incapable of achieving humanist qualities. Marchesa of Mantua, another notable woman, ruled the state in her husband’s absence, exemplifying how women could take on leadership roles.
Extra/additional MCQs
1. What does the poet say is not enough to kill a tree?
A. Hacking and chopping it
B. Causing it bleeding bark
C. Exposing its roots
D. Starving it of sunlight
Answer: B. Causing it bleeding bark
83. What movement did Martin Luther lead?
A. The Counter-Reformation
B. The Protestant Reformation
C. The Catholic Reformation
D. The Scientific Revolution
Answer: B. The Protestant Reformation
Ron’e Dutta is a journalist, teacher, aspiring novelist, and blogger who manages Online Free Notes. An avid reader of Victorian literature, his favourite book is Wuthering Heights by Emily Brontë. He dreams of travelling the world. You can connect with him on social media. He does personal writing on ronism.
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