AP European History Quiz!

2.

In his writing, Machiavelli most admired the...?

Italian merchant class
New monarchies of the North
Leaders of the church
Holy Roman Empire

Correct Answer

A. Italian merchant class

Explanation

Machiavelli most admired the Italian merchant class because they were successful and influential in politics and economics. He saw them as cunning and pragmatic, embodying the qualities he believed were necessary for effective leadership. Machiavelli admired their ability to navigate the complexities of power and achieve their goals, which aligned with his own ideas on political strategy. Additionally, the merchant class represented a rising social and economic force in Italy during Machiavelli's time, making them a natural source of admiration for him.

Rate this question:

3.

What innovation in painting was developed by the Renaissance artists?

The use of religious themes
The use of symbolism
The illusion of depth
The use of abstract geometric figures

Correct Answer

A. The use of religious themes

Explanation

During the Renaissance, artists began to focus on religious themes in their paintings. This was a significant innovation as it allowed them to depict biblical stories, saints, and religious figures in a more realistic and detailed manner. This shift towards religious subject matter was influenced by the revival of classical art and the growing influence of the Catholic Church during this time. By incorporating religious themes into their paintings, Renaissance artists were able to convey spiritual and moral messages to viewers, making their works more meaningful and impactful.

Rate this question:

4.

Machiavelli's The Prince was primarily...?

A guide to courtly etiquette
A pious testament to the secular role of the Popes
A glorification of the independent city-states of Renaissance Italy
A secular handbook on modern statecraft

Correct Answer

A. A guide to courtly etiquette

Explanation

Machiavelli's The Prince is not primarily a guide to courtly etiquette. It is a secular handbook on modern statecraft, providing advice on how rulers can gain and maintain power. It focuses on the practical aspects of politics and explores themes such as leadership, morality, and the use of force. The book is known for its realistic and pragmatic approach to politics, which often goes against traditional notions of ethics and morality.

Rate this question:

5.

Erasmus of the Netherlands...?

Made fun of corruption and superstition in the church
Was a strong supporter of papacy
Advocated religious separation from Rome
Was an early convert to Lutheranism

Correct Answer

A. Made fun of corruption and superstition in the church

Explanation

Erasmus of the Netherlands is known for his criticism of corruption and superstition within the church during the Renaissance period. He used satire and humor to point out the flaws and abuses he observed within the Catholic Church. This made him a key figure in the humanist movement and an advocate for reform within the church. While he did not support religious separation from Rome like some other reformers, his writings and ideas played a significant role in paving the way for the Protestant Reformation.

Rate this question:

6.

In the late 15th century, taxation and enforcement of the laws were assumed by...?

Feudal warlords
Semi-autonomous vassals
Nobles
Monarchs

Correct Answer

A. Feudal warlords

Explanation

In the late 15th century, taxation and enforcement of laws were assumed by feudal warlords. Feudal warlords were powerful landowners who held significant control over their territories. They collected taxes from the people living on their land and were responsible for maintaining order and enforcing laws within their domains. This decentralized system meant that power was fragmented among various warlords instead of being centralized under a single authority like the monarch.

Rate this question:

7.

Michaelangelo's David displays which thematic innovation of Renaissance artists?

The depiction of religious personages
Accurate human anatomy
The portrayal of enigmatic expressions
The depiction of classical costumes

Correct Answer

A. The depiction of religious personages

Explanation

During the Renaissance, artists sought to revive the classical ideals of ancient Greece and Rome. However, one thematic innovation of Renaissance artists was the depiction of religious personages, which was a departure from the classical focus on mythological figures. Artists like Michaelangelo used their skills to portray biblical figures with great detail and emotion, capturing the religious fervor of the time. This shift in subject matter allowed artists to explore new themes and connect with viewers on a spiritual level.

Rate this question:

8.

Renaissance humanism was a contradiction of the Middle Ages in that it...?

Sought logical explanations for the outbreak of plague in the 14th century
Promoted art, especially painting
Ignored the authority of the church
Denied church doctrine, especially the Trinity

Correct Answer

A. Denied church doctrine, especially the Trinity

Explanation

During the Middle Ages, the authority of the church was unquestioned and church doctrine was accepted without question. However, Renaissance humanism challenged this authority and began to question and criticize church doctrine, including the concept of the Trinity. This was a significant departure from the Middle Ages, where religious teachings were accepted as absolute truth. The emphasis on reason and critical thinking in Renaissance humanism led to a rejection of certain church doctrines, including the Trinity, which was seen as illogical or contradictory.

Rate this question:

AP European History Quiz!

The first literary and artistic expressions, as well as the highest cultural achievements, were centered in what Northern Italian city-state?

Quiz Preview

In his writing, Machiavelli most admired the...?

What innovation in painting was developed by the Renaissance artists?

Machiavelli's The Prince was primarily...?

Erasmus of the Netherlands...?

In the late 15th century, taxation and enforcement of the laws were assumed by...?

Michaelangelo's David displays which thematic innovation of Renaissance artists?

Renaissance humanism was a contradiction of the Middle Ages in that it...?