Unit 3: Middle Ages Study Guide

Who was Martin Luther, and what was his role in the Protestant Reformation?

Answer explanation

Martin Luther was a German monk and theologian who challenged the Catholic Church's practices, notably through his 95 Theses. His actions sparked the Protestant Reformation, leading to the establishment of Protestantism.

What were the 95 Theses, and why were they significant?

Answer explanation

The 95 Theses were Martin Luther's criticisms of the Catholic Church's practices, particularly the sale of indulgences. They sparked the Protestant Reformation, challenging church authority and promoting religious reform.

What is indulgence, and why did it spark controversy in the Church?

Answer explanation

Indulgence is a grant by the Church to reduce punishment for sins. It sparked controversy as it was seen as a way to buy forgiveness, leading to corruption and the questioning of Church authority, notably during the Reformation.

What role did the printing press play in spreading Reformation ideas?

Answer explanation

The printing press enabled the rapid dissemination of Reformation ideas by producing pamphlets and translations of the Bible, making them accessible to a wider audience and facilitating debate and discussion.

What is the doctrine of justification by faith alone?

Answer explanation

The doctrine of justification by faith alone asserts that faith in Jesus Christ is the sole means by which individuals are declared righteous before God, emphasizing grace over works.

How did John Calvin’s beliefs differ from Martin Luther’s?

Answer explanation

John Calvin emphasized predestination and a more structured church governance, while Martin Luther focused on justification by faith and individual interpretation of the Bible. These theological differences marked their distinct reformative paths.

What is predestination, and how did it influence Calvinism?

Answer explanation

Predestination is the doctrine that God has eternally chosen certain individuals for salvation. In Calvinism, it is a central tenet, emphasizing God's sovereignty and grace, shaping its views on salvation and human free will.

What was the Diet of Worms, and what decision was made about Martin Luther?

Answer explanation

The Diet of Worms in 1521 was an assembly where Martin Luther was declared an outlaw for refusing to recant his writings against the Catholic Church, solidifying his role in the Protestant Reformation.

How did the Reformation impact the political structure of Europe?

Answer explanation

The Reformation weakened the Catholic Church's influence, leading to the rise of nation-states and increased power for monarchs. This shift allowed rulers to assert authority independent of religious control, reshaping Europe's political landscape.

What was the Peace of Augsburg, and how did it address religious tensions?

Answer explanation

The Peace of Augsburg (1555) was a treaty that allowed German princes to choose between Lutheranism and Catholicism, addressing religious tensions by recognizing the coexistence of both faiths within the Holy Roman Empire.