Assignment

You can write your essay from this unit based on chapters 8, 9, and 10. You can decide which sections have the most relevance for your arguments. Be sure to make citations to the primary sources in the book. You have a choice, select A or B:

A) The title of chapter 8 is "The Expansion of Europe, 950-1100." Using this as a frame of reference write an essay addressing the following: Is the term feudalism still useful as a historical concept or has it become a misleading myth? What problems did it solve, and what others did does it create? In the High Middle Ages, what relationships do you see between economic growth and political power? For example what do we know about the growth of towns and trade. Between economic growth and technological achievements? Be sure to cite ideas, places, and people. Make a comment about the rise of national monarchies. As always: 1,200-1,800 words or more if you wish.

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B) The title of chapter 9 is "The Consolidation of Europe, 1100-1250." Using this as a frame of reference write an essay addressing the following: Discuss the role of the Church in Medieval Europe and the Church's impetus for reform during the High Middle Ages. What does the Investiture Controversy say about Church-State relations? Mention monasteries and the papacy. How do we account for the sudden increase of heresies in the 12th century? What forces motivated the heretic? How would you define scholasticism and its place in universities? Why was this century a era of promise for students who wished to pursue education outside the monastic or cathedral schools? What about Europe's interaction with Islamic Civilization. As always: 1,200-1,800 words or more if you are inclined.