AP European History Quiz!

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.

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.

Renaissance artists developed techniques like linear perspective to create the illusion of depth in their paintings, making two-dimensional works appear three-dimensional and more realistic.

Venice is the correct answer because it was one of the most influential and prosperous city-states in Northern Italy during the Renaissance period. It was known for its vibrant art scene, with famous artists like Titian and Tintoretto, and its rich cultural heritage. Venice was also a major center for trade and commerce, which allowed it to attract wealthy patrons who supported the arts. Its unique geography, with canals and bridges, added to its charm and made it a popular destination for artists and writers. Overall, Venice played a significant role in the development of literature, art, and culture during this time.

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.

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.

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.

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.