Description
OPTION 1:
A new category of people emerged during the High Middle Ages: the urban merchant class (the bourgeoisie, burgers, barons, etc.). Describe the impact they had on Western historical development in terms of in terms of political, religious, and cultural changes in Western Civilization.
OPTION 2:
Between the 8th and 14th century, the Popes of the Roman Catholic Church were increasingly involved in worldly affairs and were alternately at odds with and at the mercy of monarchical powers in Byzantium and the West. According to some scholars, by the late 15th century the Popes political power had declined in relation to that of the monarchs. Do you agree with this assertion? Why or why not? To answer this question you should analyze the moments/ events that you think are most important to validate your perspective. Some key terms and events might include
- The Donation of Constantine
- Pope Leo III
- The creation of the Holy Roman Empire
- The Crusades (the first in particular)
- The Great Schism
- The Avignon Papacy