Exploring Religion in Medieval Europe

In medieval Europe, the Roman Catholic Church was central to life, with many people becoming monks or nuns. Nobles and serfs supported the church financially, believing it would aid their spiritual journey. Despite dangers, pilgrimages were common, and the era is renowned for its grand cathedrals, which showcased architectural and artistic prowess. These cathedrals also served educational purposes, as most people were illiterate. The clergy, who could read and write, played a crucial role in copying books and founding universities. The church wielded significant political power, often surpassing that of feudal states.

What percentage of medieval people became monks or nuns?

• 5%

• 10%

• 15%

• 20%

Why did noble families support parish churches on their estates?

• To help them reach Heaven

• To ensure their crops were blessed

• To gain political power

• To avoid paying taxes

What was a significant hardship for poor serfs in supporting their village church?

• Providing free labor to the clergy

• Traveling to distant churches

• Building the church themselves

• Giving one tenth of their crops

What were medieval people most famous for building?

• Castles

• Cathedrals

• Bridges

• Universities

What purpose did the stained glass windows in cathedrals serve?

• To protect from the weather

• To instruct churchgoers in religion

• To provide light

• To decorate the church

What is depicted in the stone carving over the doorway of the French Cathedral?

• The birth of Jesus

• The Last Supper

• The Day of Judgment

• The Crucifixion

Who were responsible for copying books by hand before the invention of the printing press?

• The clergy

• Monks and nuns

• Noble families

• Ordinary people

What was the special church of a bishop called?

• Parish church

• Cathedral

• Chapel

• Monastery

What class did bishops belong to in medieval society?

• Peasants

• Merchants

• Noble Lords

• Artisans

What was one of the significant contributions of the Catholic Church during the Medieval Era?

• Building roads

• Founding universities

• Establishing trade routes

• Creating new laws