AP European History (1300 to 2000)                                                                     
Miss Avery

A little bit of background and info on the course

Technically, “modern European History” begins with the early Renaissance of the 1400’s.  However, the AP Exam holds you responsible for all material beginning in 1300.  In addition, we must peruse through the world of Antiquity.  The ideals and values of the Greeks are omni-present throughout European history so it is important for us to refresh our memories and contemplate “the Greek” belief system and its culture. So, your summer reading assignments will require you to re-examine the history of Antiquity and the Middle Ages.   When you arrive in class in August, we will begin with the Renaissance.   J

Required Reading

The Western Perspective by Cannistraro (assigned chapters in the textbook are listed below)

A World Lit Only By Fire by Manchester (placed on hold at all local bookstores or Amazon.com)

Textbook assignments – After reading each section listed below, answer each question in a concise, well-written paragraph using evidence and supporting detail from the text. (type)

The Classical Vision (beginning on page 110)

1.                  Describe the belief system and values of the Greeks.  How were these values evident within the framework of Greek drama, art and architecture? (use 3 specific examples)

2.                  Based on the Greek philosophers discussed in your text, how would you describe the “Greek mind?” (3 examples please)

3.                  Using primary documents in this chapter, analyze the attitudes and methods of the Greek historians. 

Alexander and the Hellenistic Age (beginning on page 135)

1.                  Which Greek characteristics were spread throughout Alexander’s Empire?

2.                  In your opinion, how might the conquered peoples have felt about having new values introduced into their culture?  Explain your viewpoint. 

3.                  Do you think western leaders, historians, and intellectuals have continually embellished classical values or are they simply honoring what is true and
glorious about antiquity? Give your opinion and provide some examples.                    
                                                                                           other sideð

A World Lit Only By Fire Assignment (Enjoy the book!)

Written responses (to be typed and submitted on the first day of school.)  J

1.               How does Manchester perceive the medieval period?  Give at least 5 examples or quotes from the book supporting  his viewpoint that the Middle Ages was in a world lit only by fire? (please provide page numbers for each example)

2.               Manchester strongly believes that Ferdinand Magellan was a key figure during this time period.  If you agree with him, please explain why.  If not, who do you believe is the key figure mentioned in the book?

3.               Martin Luther is rightfully credited with changing history and creating a new religion.  But he certainly was not the first person to challenge Catholic doctrine, practices, and behaviors.  What other people in European history spoke out against the Church?  Why was Luther more successful at staying alive and challenging the clergy? 

4.               Explain the historical relevance of 5 of the following people and their connection to the Medieval/Renaissance period:

Johann Gutenberg                           Macchiavelli                     Erasmus            Pope Julius                    

Christopher Columbus                   da Vinci                              Tetzel                 Pope Leo X

Savonarola                                             Michelangelo                  Frederick           John Calvin

Mirandola                                                 Thomas More               Charles V         Henry VIII

5.               According to historian Jacques Barzun, “Whoever wants an absolute copy [of history] must gain access to the mind of God.”  History is written based on perception and point of view.  If you were writing the history of Medieval/Renaissance Europe as either a devout Lutheran or a devout Catholic what might you change about this book?  Choose 2 specific examples from this book and re-write the passages.  (no more than ½ page each)

Discussion Points – Take brief notes on the following points so you may contribute to the class discussion.  You will be graded on the discussion based on the Social Studies Discussion Rubric.

M               “Christianity survived in spite of the Middle Ages, not because of it”

M               New facts or surprising info you learned from this author

M               Do you believe Manchester is too critical of this time period?  Why?

M               Examples of the intertwined relationship between religion, politics, economics, and cultural norms

o       Positive aspects/Types of problems this relationship causes