Get notes, summary, questions and answers, MCQs, extras, and PDFs of Chapter 11 “The Modern Age in Europe (A) Renaissance” which is part of ICSE Class 9 History (Total History). However, the notes should only be treated as references and changes should be made according to the needs of the students.
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Summary
The Renaissance, meaning “rebirth,” was a significant period in European history that marked the transition from the medieval era to modern times. It began in the 14th century in Italy and lasted until the 17th century. This era witnessed a revival of interest in the ancient Greek and Roman cultures, leading to advancements in art, literature, and science. The Renaissance was driven by several factors, including the capture of Constantinople by the Turks in 1453, which forced Greek and Roman scholars to move to Europe with their manuscripts. This event spread Greek culture and learning, igniting intellectual curiosity across the continent.
Another major cause was the decline of feudalism, a rigid social system based on land tenure, which restricted social mobility and personal freedom. As feudalism weakened, it paved the way for new ideas and social changes that contributed to the Renaissance.
The discovery of new trade routes by navigators like Columbus and Vasco da Gama further expanded European horizons, leading to the exchange of ideas and goods between the East and West. This period also saw the invention of the printing press by Gutenberg, which made books more accessible, spreading knowledge and ideas rapidly.
Humanism, a key feature of the Renaissance, focused on human potential and achievements. It emphasized the study of classical texts and inspired a new outlook on life, where man was seen as capable of shaping his own destiny. The Renaissance also produced great artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, whose works reflected this new human-centered view of the world.
In literature, the use of local languages instead of Latin became popular, and writers began to explore human themes. Figures like Shakespeare in England wrote about the complexities of human nature, which had a lasting impact on literature and drama.
The Renaissance period laid the foundation for modern science, as scholars began to question traditional beliefs and sought knowledge through observation and experimentation. This shift in thinking led to significant scientific discoveries, such as Copernicus’s heliocentric theory.
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Textbook (Total History) solutions
Multiple-Choice Questions
1. Which of the following is the correct order of hierarchy of medieval Europe?
A. Dukes — Barons — Knight — peasants
B. Barons — Earls — Feudal Lords — peasants
C. Earls — Dukes — Knights — Barons
D. Barons — Dukes — Knights — Lords
Answer: A. Dukes — Barons — Knight — peasants
2. Which of the following was NOT a result of the Fall of Constantinople?
A. Discovery of new trade routes
B. Crusades
C. Decline of Feudalism
D. Revival of learning
Answer: B. Crusades
3. ___________ refer to the religious expeditionary wars with the goal of restoring the Church’s access to holy places in and near Jerusalem.
A. Crusades
B. Brisades
C. Black wars
D. Agnar
Answer: A. Crusades
4. Where did the Renaissance first begin?
A. England
B. India
C. Italy
D. France
Answer: C. Italy
5. Which of the following is incorrect?
A. Da Vinci : The Last Supper
B. Donatello : Pieta
C. Machiavelli : The Prince
D. Shakespeare : King Lear
Answer: B. Donatello : Pieta
6. What was the Copernican Revolution?
A. Proof that the earth revolves around the sun.
B. Proof that the earth was the centre of the universe.
C. Proof of close connection between medicine and chemists.
D. Proof of circulatory movement of blood in the body.
Answer: A. Proof that the earth revolves around the sun.
7. Interest in man, his interests, his nature and his life on earth is referred to as
A. Spirituality
B. Theology
C. Humanism
D. Reformation
Answer: C. Humanism
Select the correct relationship
1. (A) Renaissance, which means rebirth or revival, was a complex transitional movement that began in Europe in the 14th century in Italy and lasted till the 17th century.
(B) Many Greek and Roman scholars shifted to Rome and revived the learning of Greek classics and paved the way for Renaissance.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: (b) (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The Renaissance is known as a period of “rebirth” because it was marked by a renewed interest in the classical knowledge of Greece and Rome. The migration of Greek and Roman scholars to Rome with their manuscripts after the fall of Constantinople was a critical factor in reviving these classical ideas. This resurgence of classical knowledge was a driving force behind the Renaissance, making statement (B) a direct reason for statement (A).
2. (A) The disintegration of the feudal order in Europe ushered in a new social and economic order.
(B) The new order led to new developments in art, literature, philosophy and science and contributed to the rise of Renaissance.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: (b) (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The breakdown of the feudal system allowed for greater social mobility and the growth of cities, where trade, education, and culture flourished. This shift created an environment that nurtured the Renaissance, fostering advancements in various fields. Therefore, the new social and economic order described in statement (B) was indeed a consequence of the disintegration of the feudal order mentioned in statement (A).
3. (A) The wealthy merchants of Italy patronised the artists and literary figures for the revival of classical culture and literature.
(B) The opening of new trade routes between the East and the West led to the revival of feudalism in Europe.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: (c) (A) is true but (B) is false
Explanation: The wealthy merchants in Italy did indeed support artists and intellectuals, fueling the Renaissance by reviving classical culture. However, the statement in (B) is incorrect because the opening of new trade routes actually contributed to the decline of feudalism, not its revival. The increased trade led to the growth of a wealthy middle class that challenged the feudal system.
4. (A) Renaissance led to the use of local languages instead of Latin.
(B) During Renaissance, the authors dwelt on spiritual themes.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: (c) (A) is true but (B) is false
Explanation: The Renaissance was a period that saw the rise of literature in local languages (vernacular languages) instead of Latin, making literature accessible to a broader audience. However, Renaissance writers focused more on humanism and the human experience rather than solely on spiritual or religious themes. Hence, statement (B) is false.
5. (A) Renaissance led to the Reformation Movement in England and in Europe.
(B) During the Renaissance period, there occurred a division of the Church into two sects—Catholics and the Protestants.
(a) (B) contradicts (A)
(b) (B) is the reason for (A)
(c) (A) is true but (B) is false
(d) (A) and (B) are independent of each other.
Answer: (b) (B) is the reason for (A)
Explanation: The Renaissance encouraged critical thinking, questioning of traditional authority, and a focus on individualism, which contributed to the Protestant Reformation. This Reformation led to the division of the Church into Catholics and Protestants. Therefore, the division mentioned in (B) was indeed a catalyst for the broader Reformation movement referenced in (A).
Short Answer Questions
1. What is meant by the term ‘Renaissance’?
Answer: The term Renaissance means rebirth or revival. It stands for a complex transitional movement in Europe between medieval and modern times, beginning in the 14th century in Italy and lasting into the 17th century. It marked the revival of the freedom to think and act without being controlled by any external agency. It was also a revival of the study of the ancient Greek and Roman classics.
2. Mention any two causes of the Renaissance.
Answer:
- Capture of Constantinople: Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and was a centre of Greek and Roman cultures. When it fell into the hands of the Turks in 1453, many Greek and Roman scholars were forced to shift to Rome and other parts of Europe with their manuscripts. These scholars revived interest in the study of Greek philosophy, science, art, and literature, paving the way for the Renaissance.
- Decline of Feudalism: The decline of feudalism in the 13th and 14th centuries provided an impetus to free thinking. The peace and freedom that prevailed after the decline of feudalism favoured the growth of New Learning, leading to new developments in art, literature, philosophy, and science, contributing to the rise of the Renaissance.
3. What was the result of the victory of the Turks over Constantinople?
Answer: The victory of the Turks over Constantinople in 1453 forced many Greek and Roman scholars to shift to Rome and other parts of Europe with their valuable manuscripts. These scholars, being men of liberal outlook, humanism, and logical thinking, spread their new spirit and ideas, reviving interest in the study of Greek philosophy, science, art, and literature, which paved the way for the Renaissance.
4. The decline of feudalism led to the rise of Renaissance. Give two reasons.
Answer:
- The decline of feudalism ended the graded organisation of society, which had opposed freedom and equality of rights. The peace and freedom that followed allowed for the growth of New Learning and contributed to the rise of the Renaissance.
- The new social and economic order that emerged with the decline of feudalism favoured free thinking and the development of art, literature, philosophy, and science, which were crucial to the Renaissance.
5. Mention any two factors that led to the growth of the spirit of enquiry among the people of Europe.
Answer:
- Role of Original Thinkers: Certain bold and independent thinkers, like Roger Bacon, Abelard, and Thomas Aquinas, criticised the Church and asked people to develop their own thinking. These original thinkers are called the forerunners of Renaissance and played a key role in promoting the spirit of enquiry.
- Development of Science: Medieval scholars with a scientific attitude encouraged their students to observe nature, leading to many new inventions and discoveries. This development of science created the spirit of enquiry and scientific temper among the people.
6. How did the invention of the printing press bring in a new awakening in Europe?
Answer: The invention of the printing press brought a new awakening in Europe by making it possible to produce books in large numbers. The Bible and many other religious and classical books were printed and made available all over Europe. The printing press spread knowledge far and wide. Scholars found it easier to read printed books than hand-written manuscripts. In the Middle Ages, books were few, and they were beyond the reach of ordinary people. The printing press enabled Europe to multiply books and put them within the reach of people. Printing and distribution of books influenced people’s attitude to life and brought about a new awakening in Europe.
7. Mention any two consequences of geographical explorations.
Answer: Two consequences of geographical explorations were the establishment of trade between Europe and the East, bringing prosperity to Europe, and the process of colonisation of Asia and Africa. Europeans began to export the resources of their colonies in America, Asia, and Africa to increase their power.
8. Explain briefly the term ‘Humanism’.
Answer: Humanism, a key phenomenon of the Renaissance, was a product of the spread of education and learning. The word ‘humanism’ was derived from the Latin words ‘Studia humanitatis’ or ‘the studies of mankind’. It meant a decisive shift in concern for human as distinct from divine matters. Humanism extolled man and stressed his essential dignity. It was centred on the man of flesh and blood with all his earthly joys and sorrows. It opposed religious asceticism and defended man’s right to pleasure and the satisfaction of earthly desires and requirements.
9. Why did the Renaissance begin in Italy? Give two reasons.
Answer: The Renaissance began in Italy because it was the seat of the glorious Roman Empire, where all the historical remains and relics of the Romans attracted scholars and artists. Additionally, after the Fall of Constantinople, many Greek scholars and thinkers migrated to Italy with their original manuscripts and art treasures, instilling a spirit of enquiry and enthusiasm among the people of Italy.
10. Renaissance artists tried to depict life on canvas and stone. With reference to this statement, describe the progress in the art of painting.
Answer: Renaissance artists depicted life on canvas and stone by taking their subjects from the Bible but portraying the human form in all its earthly beauty and vigour. New techniques were adopted in painting to give a fine feeling of reality. For example, Leonardo da Vinci’s paintings such as ‘The Last Supper’ and ‘Mona Lisa’ are masterpieces that showcase this advancement. Similarly, Michelangelo’s works, particularly his paintings in the Sistine Chapel in the Vatican, depict incidents and persons from the Old Testament with a deep sense of humanism. The Renaissance artists’ emphasis on realism and humanism marked significant progress in the art of painting.
11. Mention the impact of the Renaissance in the field of English literature.
Answer: The Renaissance impacted English literature by introducing the use of local languages instead of Latin and shifting themes from spiritual matters to human concerns. This period saw the rise of Humanism, focusing on man and his problems. Renowned writers like William Shakespeare emerged, whose works, including 38 plays and 154 sonnets, continue to influence literature worldwide.
Structured Questions
1. Many factors contributed to usher in the spirit of Renaissance, which had far-reaching consequences for the entire world. In this context, write short notes on:
(a) Invention of the printing press.
Answer: The invention of the printing press in the middle of the 15th century by Gutenberg in Germany was a significant factor in the spread of Renaissance ideas. The printing press made it possible to produce books in large numbers, which were previously limited to handwritten manuscripts. This invention spread knowledge far and wide, making books more accessible to the public. The Bible and many other religious and classical books were printed and made available all over Europe. As a result, scholars found it easier to read printed books, which led to a new awakening in Europe. The printing press played a crucial role in the dissemination of new ideas, contributing to the overall progress of the Renaissance.
(b) Decline of Feudalism.
Answer: Feudalism was a system according to which medieval European society was organized on the basis of land tenure. The decline of feudalism in the 13th and 14th centuries provided an impetus to free thinking, which was crucial for the rise of Renaissance. As feudalism declined, the rigid social structure that hindered social mobility began to break down. This allowed for the growth of new social classes, particularly the middle class, which played a significant role in the cultural and intellectual developments of the Renaissance. The peace and freedom that prevailed after the decline of feudalism favored the growth of New Learning, which led to new developments in the spheres of art, literature, philosophy, and science.
(c) Capture of Constantinople.
Answer: The capture of Constantinople by the Turks in 1453 was a turning point in European history and a catalyst for the Renaissance. Constantinople was the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire and a center of Greek and Roman cultures. When it fell into the hands of the Turks, many Greek and Roman scholars were forced to flee to other parts of Europe, particularly Italy, with their valuable manuscripts. These scholars brought with them the knowledge and ideas of the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations, which sparked a revival of learning and interest in classical antiquity. This influx of knowledge played a crucial role in the intellectual and cultural awakening that characterized the Renaissance.
2. Renaissance brought in a spirit of enquiry among the people of Europe. In this context, answer the following questions:
(a) Explain briefly the role of original thinkers in promoting the spirit of enquiry among the people of Europe.
Answer: During the Medieval Age, the Church discouraged original thinking and called upon scholars to put faith in the Church dogmas. However, original thinking could not be suppressed for a long time, and certain bold and independent thinkers criticized the Church and asked the people to develop their own thinking. Thinkers like Roger Bacon, Abelard, and Thomas Aquinas revolutionized the thought process and laid stress on reasoning. These original thinkers are considered the forerunners of the Renaissance as they promoted the spirit of enquiry and encouraged people to question established beliefs and explore new ideas.
(b) How did the development of science create the spirit of enquiry?
Answer: The development of science during the Renaissance played a crucial role in fostering the spirit of enquiry. In the age of faith, science had little scope for development, but certain medieval scholars showed a scientific attitude and asked their students to observe things in nature. This led to many new inventions and discoveries. The method of enquiry, questioning, observation, and experimentation became central to scientific investigations, challenging the old beliefs and traditions. Discoveries such as Copernicus’ heliocentric theory, Galileo’s invention of the telescope, and Newton’s Law of Gravitation broadened the mental outlook of the people and put an end to the old beliefs and traditions, thereby promoting a spirit of enquiry.
(c) What was the role of Crusades in ushering in the spirit of enquiry?
Answer: The Crusades were religious wars aimed at restoring the Church’s access to holy places in and near Jerusalem. These wars brought the people of Europe into direct contact with the people of Asia. The Crusades exposed Europeans to new ideas, cultures, and knowledge from the East, which widened their outlook on life. This contact with different cultures and ideas encouraged Europeans to rely on reason rather than blind faith, thus promoting the spirit of enquiry. The exchange of ideas during the Crusades played a significant role in challenging the established norms and beliefs of medieval Europe, paving the way for the intellectual and cultural awakening of the Renaissance.
3. Renaissance or rebirth brought about drastic changes in art, literature and science. In this context, write short notes on the following:
(a) Leonardo Da Vinci
Answer: Leonardo Da Vinci was one of the most prominent figures of the Renaissance, known for his contributions to art, science, and technology. His interests ranged far beyond fine arts; he studied nature, mechanics, anatomy, physics, architecture, and weaponry. He saw science and art as complementary rather than distinct disciplines, believing that ideas formulated in one realm could inform the other. Da Vinci spent a great deal of time immersed in nature, testing scientific laws, dissecting bodies, and thinking and writing about his observations. His paintings, such as ‘The Last Supper’ and ‘Mona Lisa,’ are masterpieces of art, and he introduced new techniques in painting that gave a fine feeling of reality.
(b) William Shakespeare
Answer: William Shakespeare was an English poet, playwright, and actor, widely regarded as the greatest writer in the English language and the world’s pre-eminent dramatist. He is often called England’s national poet and the “Bard of Avon.” Shakespeare wrote 38 plays, 154 sonnets, two long narrative poems, and a few other verses. His works are known for their universal themes and appeal, transcending culture and history. With the exception of ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ Shakespeare’s first plays were mostly historical dramas, such as ‘Richard II,’ ‘Henry VI,’ and ‘Henry V.’ He also wrote several comedies during his early period, including ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream,’ ‘Much Ado About Nothing,’ and ‘Twelfth Night.’ After 1600, he wrote tragedies like ‘Hamlet,’ ‘King Lear,’ ‘Othello,’ and ‘Macbeth.’
(c) Copernicus
Answer: Nicolaus Copernicus was a mathematician and astronomer who formulated a model of the universe that placed the sun, rather than the earth, at the center of the universe. The publication of this model in his book ‘De revolutionibus orbium coelestium’ (On the Revolutions of the Celestial Spheres) just before his death in 1543 is regarded as a major event in the history of science, triggering the Copernican Revolution. Copernicus based his heliocentric theory on the following: there is no one center of all celestial circles or spheres; the center of the earth is not the center of the universe, but only of gravity and of the lunar sphere; all the spheres revolve around the sun as their midpoint, and therefore, the sun is the center of the universe; the earth has more than one motion, turning on its axis and moving in a spherical orbit around the sun.
4. Study the given picture and answer the following questions.
(a) Identify the painting and name the artist who made it. Name another famous painting by the same artist.
Answer: The painting is ‘The Last Supper,’ and the artist who made it is Leonardo Da Vinci. Another famous painting by the same artist is ‘Mona Lisa.’
(b) Write a short note on the artist who made this painting.
Answer: Leonardo Da Vinci was a painter, sculptor, architect, and scientist. He was a leading figure of the Italian Renaissance and is widely considered one of the greatest painters of all time. Da Vinci’s interests extended beyond the fine arts to include studies in anatomy, mechanics, and physics. He is known for his meticulous observation and detailed recordings, which are evident in his numerous notebooks filled with sketches and writings on various subjects. Da Vinci’s art is characterized by its lifelike quality and the use of techniques such as sfumato and chiaroscuro, which add depth and realism to his works. His paintings, including ‘Mona Lisa’ and ‘The Last Supper,’ are celebrated for their composition, intricate details, and emotional depth.
(c) What changes occurred in art as a result of the Renaissance spirit in Europe?
Answer: The Renaissance spirit in Europe brought about significant changes in art. Artists began to focus on the realistic portrayal of the human form and the natural world. There was a renewed interest in the study of anatomy, perspective, and light, which allowed artists to create more lifelike and three-dimensional images. The use of techniques such as sfumato (the blending of colors and tones) and chiaroscuro (the contrast between light and dark) became prominent. The subject matter of art also expanded beyond religious themes to include portraits, landscapes, and scenes from everyday life. The Renaissance period marked the beginning of the modern era in art, with a focus on individualism, humanism, and the exploration of new artistic techniques and styles.
Thinking Skills
1. Imagine that you went to Rome during the period when the Renaissance movement was at its peak. Describe the spirit of Renaissance among the artists, scientists, authors and the masses.
Answer: During the peak of the Renaissance in Rome, there was a vibrant atmosphere of creativity, intellectual exploration, and a thirst for knowledge. Artists were deeply engaged in mastering new techniques, particularly in portraying the human form with realism and emotion. They sought to capture the beauty of the natural world and human experience in their work. Scientists were breaking free from traditional beliefs, relying on observation and experimentation to understand the universe. Authors were shifting their focus from religious themes to human experiences and emotions, emphasizing individualism and the importance of the human spirit. The masses were inspired by these changes, with a growing interest in learning, questioning established norms, and exploring new ideas. The Renaissance spirit was one of revival, where old beliefs were challenged, and new perspectives were embraced with enthusiasm.
2. How, according to you, the spirit of enquiry has been an important factor in the growth and development of human civilisation? Give examples to support your answer.
Answer: The spirit of enquiry has been a crucial driver in the advancement of human civilisation. It encourages individuals to question existing knowledge, seek out new information, and innovate. For instance, the scientific revolution, which was born out of the Renaissance spirit of enquiry, led to groundbreaking discoveries in astronomy, physics, and biology. Galileo’s use of the telescope to study the heavens challenged the long-held geocentric view of the universe, leading to the acceptance of the heliocentric model. The industrial revolution, which transformed societies from agrarian economies to industrial powerhouses, was also driven by this spirit of enquiry. Innovations in machinery, transportation, and production methods were all results of questioning existing practices and seeking more efficient ways to achieve goals. Overall, the spirit of enquiry fosters progress by pushing the boundaries of what is known and encouraging continuous exploration and discovery.
3. Do you think industrialisation would have been possible without Renaissance? Give reasons to support your answer.
Answer: Industrialisation likely would not have been possible without the Renaissance. The Renaissance laid the groundwork for the scientific and intellectual advancements that were essential for industrialisation. The emphasis on observation, experimentation, and questioning established knowledge during the Renaissance led to significant developments in science and technology. These advancements, in turn, enabled the creation of new machinery and production techniques that powered the industrial revolution. Furthermore, the Renaissance encouraged a culture of innovation and individualism, which fueled entrepreneurial endeavors and the development of new industries. Without the Renaissance, the intellectual and cultural environment necessary for industrialisation may not have existed.
4. Compare and contrast the events in Europe with what was happening in India at the time of Renaissance.
Answer: During the time of the Renaissance in Europe, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th century, India was experiencing a different set of historical developments. In Europe, the Renaissance was marked by a revival of classical learning, significant advancements in art, literature, and science, and a general spirit of enquiry and exploration. This period saw the decline of feudalism, the rise of powerful nation-states, and the beginning of European overseas exploration and colonization.
In contrast, India during this period was under the rule of various regional kingdoms and the Delhi Sultanate, followed by the Mughal Empire in the 16th century. The Mughal period, particularly under emperors like Akbar, was known for its cultural and artistic achievements, including the development of Indo-Islamic architecture, advancements in painting, and the flourishing of literature in Persian and other regional languages. However, unlike the European Renaissance, which was characterized by a break from religious authority and a move towards secularism, India’s cultural developments were deeply intertwined with religious and courtly traditions.
While Europe was moving towards a more scientific and rational approach to knowledge, India’s developments were more focused on artistic and architectural achievements, with a strong influence of religion and the patronage of rulers. The spirit of enquiry that defined the European Renaissance was less pronounced in India, where traditional forms of knowledge and authority remained more intact during this period.
Extra/additional MCQs
1. What is the term “Renaissance” most commonly associated with?
A. The decline of the Church
B. The revival of Greek and Roman classics
C. The end of the medieval period
D. The rise of feudalism
Answer: B. The revival of Greek and Roman classics
41. What were the consequences of geographical explorations during the Renaissance?
A. Decline of trade
B. Colonisation of Asia and Africa
C. Isolation of Europe
D. Unification of EuropeAnswer: B. Colonisation of Asia and Africa
Extra/additional questions and answers
1. What does the term Renaissance mean?
Answer: Rebirth or revival.
44. How did the Renaissance contribute to the rise of the middle class and nation-states?
Answer: The Renaissance played a crucial role in the rise of the middle class and the growth of nation-states. During the Middle Ages, feudal lords controlled vast territories and enjoyed the luxuries of life, but the Renaissance movement diminished their influence. In their place, traders, soldiers, lawyers, and other professionals from the middle class began to rise and make rapid progress. This period also fostered a sense of nationality, as people started to identify more with their nation. The Renaissance’s emphasis on national literature and culture further strengthened these feelings, leading to the development and growth of nation-states, which became the dominant political entities in Europe.
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