Unit 10: Foundations of Early Medieval Society

What were the three major influences on early medieval society?

• Greek philosophy, Islamic traditions, Germanic customs

• Classical heritage of Rome, Christian beliefs, customs of Germanic tribes

• Feudalism, Roman Catholicism, Viking invasions

• Trade networks, democratic ideals, Renaissance culture

What role did the Christian Church play in early medieval Europe?

• It had little influence over daily life.

• It was only important in religious matters.

• It was a unifying force and held political power.

• It declined in influence after the fall of Rome.

What caused the decline of towns and trade in early medieval Europe?

• The rise of feudalism

• The spread of the Black Death

• Invasions by Vikings, Magyars, and others

• A shift in economic focus to industrial production

What language was revived as the language of scholars under Charlemagne?

• Old Norse

• Greek

• Latin

• Arabic

Who was crowned Emperor by the Pope in 800 A.D.?

• Clovis

• Charlemagne

• Charles Martel

• William the Conqueror

Why was Charlemagne’s coronation as emperor significant?

• It strengthened the alliance between the Pope and the Frankish kings.

• It marked the end of Christianity’s influence in Europe.

• It led to the division of the Roman Empire.

• It weakened the power of the Church in political life.

What structures did Charlemagne build to unite his empire?

• Castles and moats

• Churches, roads, and schools

• Universities and libraries

• Markets and trade centers

True or False: The Frankish Empire under Charlemagne included most of Western Europe.

What happened to Charlemagne’s empire after his death?

• It expanded further.

• It remained unified for centuries.

• It was divided among his grandsons, weakening it.

• It became part of the Byzantine Empire.

Where did the Magyars migrate in the 10th century?

• Scandinavia

• Central Europe

• The Iberian Peninsula

• The Byzantine Empire