humanities 1, humanities ch.2, humanities chapter 3, humanities ch.4, humanities chapter 4 part 2, humanities ch. 6, 7, & 8, humanities- ch. 9, humanities- ch.10, humanities- ch. 11
What are "fabliaux" and "exempla"?
"fabliaux" are bawdy fables and "exempla" are stories with an instructive moral.
What is a musical mode? What emotions are attributed to the Dorian and Phrygian modes?
A mode is a series of pitches (a scale) comprised of half- and whole "steps". The specific distribution of the half- and whole steps produces the variety of modes, each of which has its own distinct sound. The Greeks believed that music could influence human emotions (and actions), and that particular modes had specific attributes. For example, the Dorian mode was often associated with powerful, warlike feelings, while the Phrygian mode had the power to elicit sensual, passionate feelings.
What is isorhythm and how did this technique effect music?
A single voice repeats a rhythmic figure while the other voices weave in and out. This creates a richness and dynamism new to polyphonic compositions.
What does it mean to say that Gregorian chants were sung a capella?
A song which is sung a capella has no instrumental accompaniment.
In general terms, what is most striking about Egyptian culture over the centuries?
A striking characteristic of Egyptian culture is its unity and consistency over the centuries.
According to Thucydides, which leader is most associated with the achievements of the Athenian Golden Age?
According to Thucydides, Pericles is most associated with the achievements of the Athenian Golden Age.
What was the purpose of the amphora with a hole in its base?
Amphoras were set above tombs and had holes through which offerings could be poured.
From what civilization came such words as orange, lemon, sugar, alcohol, and sherbet?
Arabic.
How did the art of the Etruscans differ from that of the Greeks?
Etruscan art emphasizes the expressive impact of the work on the viewer over concerns with proportion, which characterized much of Greek art. Etruscan sculpture and painting is relaxed and celebratory of the natural world while at the same time exhibiting highly sophisticated craftsmanship.
According to the text, what is the relationship between the emergence of war and the development of agriculture?
Farmers' improved ability to store food and accumulate wealth provided neighboring communities with motives to make raids, thus leading to war.
Which two European countries were the main combatants in the Hundred Years' War?
France and England.
What was the goal of the journey of Gilgamesh?
Gilgamesh wanted to find the key to immortality.
What is the goal of the practices and disciplines of Sufism?
Having a direct experience of God
Who was the first known "author" in the history of western literature? What were his achievements?
Homer is considered to be the first "author" of western literature. His two major works are the epic tales the Iliad and the Odyssey.
What was the subject of Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed?
In Maimonides' Guide for the Perplexed, he attempted to reconcile Aristotelian logic with the Hebrew scriptures.
in a typical day, how many hours did Benedictine monks spend at prayer? at reading? at work?
In a typical day, Benedictine monks prayed four hours, read four hours and worked six hours.
What is the name of the Islamic legal code?
Shari'a.
How was St. Francis' faith affirmative?
St. Francis' faith was affirmative in that he reinvigorated the Christian faith with the basic teachings and practices of Jesus in a way that had widespread appeal.
What the three Islamic traditions are discussed in the text? Which has the largest following? Which is the name of the most mystical branch or tradition of Islam?
Sunni, Shi'a, and Sufism.
What was the "Divine Office?" What role did it play in the lives of monks?
The "Divine Offices" were periods of worship set aside for the recitation of psalms, singing of hymns, and prayer. There were several of these services throughout the day, which divided the monk's daily activities.
When did Babylonian civilization emerge? Who was its greatest ruler and what famous work is attributed to him?
The Babylonian civilization unified Mesopotamia c. 1800 B.C.E. The most famous Babylonian king was Hammurabi who wrote The Law Code of Hammurabi, one of the earliest attempts to create social legislation.
What event brought an influx of Greek scholars to the West?
The collapse of Constantinople to the Turks in 1453
Where can the oldest paintings of humankind be found (c. 15,000-13,000 B.C.E.)?
The oldest cave paintings have been found in Lascaux, France and Altamira.
Why is it more difficult to generalize about ancient Mesopotamian culture than about ancient Egyptian culture? (And which of the following two words is more applicable to Ancient Mesopotamia: unity or diversity?)
Unlike Egyptian culture, which was unified for over 3000 years, the Mesopotamian culture is made of several succession of peoples, the most prominent being the Sumerians, the Akkadians, and the Assyrians.
What was the subject of the story told by Utnapishtim in The Epic of Gilgamesh?
Utnapishtim recounts the story of the great flood as known in Babylonia.
What was a student qualified to do with a Master of Arts degree?
With a Master of Arts degree, a student received a teaching certificate.
In Giotto's Saint Francis Renouncing his Worldly Goods , how does the bishop react to Francis' nakedness? What action of the bishop symbolizes Francis' entry into the church?
Worldly Goods, the bishop covers Francis' naked body with his Episcopal cape.
What were three of the early symbols of Christianity?
a snake wrapped around an anchor, the Greek letters chi and rho, and Christ as the shepherd.
What is the purpose of the minaret or minarets adjacent to the mosque?
adjacent to the mosque that the Muezzin calls the faithful to prayer five times per day.
What word comes from the two Greek words that mean "beautiful writing"?
calligraphy
What is unusual about the face of Christ in the wall painting of Christ Teaching the Apostles (c. C.E. 300)?
he is shown beardless and wearing a Roman toga.
Did Augustine believe that history repeated itself in cycles or proceeded in a linear fashion? What was the culmination of humanity's "story"?
history proceeded linearly towards a day when the city of man would be destroyed and the city of God would reign.
What was the name of the palace complex in Granada that escaped destruction during the Reconquista?
palace of Alhambra
What was the importance of the Codex Sinaiticus discovered in Saint Catherine's monastery at Mount Sinai? Where is it now displayed?
the earliest Greek translation of the New Testament, dated to the middle of the fourth century. Currently in the British Museum.
What was the "Babylonian Captivity"?
the period of Hebrew exile after the destruction of Solomon's temple in Jerusalem.
Who were Emperor Justinian and Empress Theodora? What did they believe was their mission?
the ruler of the Roman Empire based in Constantinople during the sixth century. a former dancer and prostitute, was his wife. to reestablish the grandeur of Rome under the Christian faith.
Why were early Christians persecuted by the government of Rome?
they refused to renounce their faith or pay homage to the Roman gods, a practice which was viewed both as heretical and treasonous to the state.
What is "asceticism" and "eremitism?"
"Asceticism" means self-denial and "eremitism" means the solitary life.
Who was the first important Athenian tragic dramatist (he wrote the Oresteia trilogy)? What does the Oresteia trilogy say about the way to bring a rational society of human beings out of primeval chaos?
Aeschylus wrote the first major tragic drama, the Oresteia trilogy. Through these three dramas Aeschylus expresses his belief that ultimately the power of persuasion and human reason can put an end to violence and despair, and for the larger community secure civilization and order over primeval chaos.
What instruments, besides the voice, were common in the Archaic period?
Aside from the voice, the aulos and cithara were common instruments in the Archaic period.
Who was the most important author in Ravenna in the twilight period between the last Roman emperor and the arrival of Justinian's troops?
Boethius
What earlier empire did Charlemagne base his administration and decrees upon?
Charlemagne based his administration and decrees upon a Roman model.
In what town did Charlemagne build his palace and royal chapel?
Charlemagne built his palace and royal chapel at Aachen or in French Aix-la-Chapelle.
How did Charlemagne encourage commerce throughout the empire?
Charlemagne encouraged commerce throughout the empire by establishing the denier as the standard coin, encouraged the development of a merchant class, and supported annual trade fairs in Paris.
What is the Italian word for cathedral? Why is this an appropriate name for the cathedral of Florence?
Duomo. It's topped by a magnificent dome and the cathedral is referred to as Il Duomo.
How did the physical geography of Greece effect the development of the states?
Greece is comprised of a series of mountain ranges and high hills which crisscross and divide the region into discrete areas. Thus, the main urban centers and accompanying states developed in relative isolation from one another.
What was the subject of the Ius Civile of Julius Caesar?
In the Ius Civile, Julius Caesar created a single unified code of Roman civil law.
What invention in the first century B.C.E. made possible the Roman use of barrel vaults and domes?
In the first century B.C.E. the invention of concrete and new understanding of stress and counter-stress made possible the development of barrel vaults and domes.
What is the meaning of the term "Renaissance"?
It comes from the Latin term nasci, which means "to be born"; thus, renaissance is to be born again.
What was the subject of Giotto's Lamentation (c. 1305)?
It depicts the dead body of Christ surrounded by his apostles, angles and the Mary.
What name is given to the style of late Gothic architecture in England? Why?
It's called "perpendicular", because of a design which emphasizes height.
How was ivory used to decorate medieval books?
Ivory was carved in intricate low relief to decorate the covers of medieval books.
Who were the jongleurs, and how did they spread the Song of Roland? In Italy, what name was given to Roland?
Jongleurs were traveling minstrels who brought the Song of Roland to people throughout the Empire. In Italy, Roland was called "Orlando."
What illuminated book (now at the University of Utrecht in Holland) is considered the literary masterpiece of the Carolingian Renaissance?
The illuminated book the Utrecht Psalter is considered the literary masterpiece of the Carolingian Renaissance
What factors explain the rise of formal educational institutions in twelfth-century Europe?
The increase in urbanization and the need for educated administrators and bureaucrats, the reemergence of Aristotle's texts, collaboration between Christian and Arabic scholars in the sciences and mathematics, and the rise of theology all contributed to the surge of formal educational institutions in twelfth-century Europe.
What made possible the increased height of Gothic cathedrals?
The increased height was possible because of technical innovations in the construction of the pointed arch which distributed weight more evenly
What do the excavations at Pompeii tell us about the inhabitants' way of life?
The inhabitants of Pompeii lived in comfort, their decorated homes designed to stave off the heat of summers and provide refuge from the busy city streets. There were several bathhouses, a theatre, a concert hall, and an amphitheatre which all attest to a rich cultural community
What was the name of the large open space in the center of Rome used for meetings of the Senate and the assemblies of the people?
The large open space in the center of Rome used for meetings of the Senate and the assemblies of the people is called the forum.
What political events characterized the last century of the Roman Republic (133 B.C.E. to 31 B.C.E.)?
The last century of the Roman Republic was rife with power struggles between the leaders Marius, Sulla, Pompey, and Caesar and their supporters in an effort to gain control over the state. This lack of political stability, along with strains due to widespread Roman expansion into other territories, eventually lead to the collapse of the Republic.
Who are the main characters in the Oresteia trilogy and how are they related to one another?
The main characters in the Oresteia trilogy are King Agamemnon, his wife Clytemnestra, their two grown children Orestes and Electra, and Clytemnestra's lover Aegisthus.
Which Italian sculptors demonstrate the Roman and northern Gothic influences in their work?
Nicola and Giovanni Pisano were two Italian sculptors (father and son).
What language did the Sufi mystic Rumi (1207-1273) use in writing his religious verse?
Persian.
What was the purpose of the "signature frames" found at the bottom of many stained-glass windows?
The "signature frames" found at the bottom of many stained-glass windows designated the trade guild or benefactor who paid for the window.
What are the six characteristics of civilized societies and of "civilization" mentioned in the textbook?
The 6 characteristics of civilization are: 1. urban life 2. a system of government 3. distinct social classes 4. tools and specialized skills which lead to the rise in manufacturing 5. a written form of communication 6. a shared system of religious belief
What was the functional purpose of the Gothic gargoyles? What was their didactic purpose?
The Gothic gargoyles functioned as gutter spigots. Didactically they were to demonstrate that evil cannot enter the sacred space of the church.
After the return of the papacy to Rome, what name was given to the split (1378-1417) in the Roman Catholic Church?
The Great Schism.
What influence did their colonization of Asia Minor have on Greek culture? What is the term for this?
The Greek colonization of Asia Minor created trade contacts with the new peoples in the East, in particular the Persians and Phoenicians. This contact influenced Greek art stylistically, introducing new motifs and perspectives, termed as Orientalizing.
What is the meaning of the Greek word monos? How does the meaning of monos clarify for us the meaning of the word monasticism?
The Greek word monos means "alone." Thus, monasticism was a life lived in solitude.
Why did the Greeks emphasize the study of human thought and actions?
The Greeks believed it was through the study of human thought and actions that we could understand what forces lay behind people's deeds.
What influence did the Macedonians and Romans have on the spread of Greek ideas?
The Greeks were conquered by the Macedonians and Romans who then spread Greek ideas throughout the ancient world.
What two epic poems became the first great works of literature of early Greece?
The Iliad and the Odyssey became first great works of literature of early Greece.
How did the epic poems the Iliad and the Odyssey come into being? When were the first "official" versions made? When were the editions made that are most often used today?
The Iliad and the Odyssey were initially a body of several stories which recounted the events of the Trojan wars. It is believed that these tales crystallized into a cohesive form-similar to their present form-around 800 B.C.E., and that the first written versions were made after 600 B.C.E. The version used by most scholars today was written by a scribe in Alexandria in the second century B.C.E.
What was the significance of the Ka'aba?
The Ka'aba, meaning "cube," was originally the site of a pagan shrine and the location to which Muhammad returned to establish the center of Islam.
Where and what was the Labyrinth? What was the Greek myth of the Minotaur, Theseus, and Ariadne?
The Labyrinth was in Knossos, Crete, and in it was a Minotaur-half man and half bull-to whom seven boys and girls were regularly sacrificed. According to legend, Theseus killed the Minotaur, freed the children, and escaped with King Minos' daughter, Ariadne.
What were the subjects of the twelve illuminated pages in the Trés Riches Heures du Duc de Berry (1416)? Who were the artists?
The Limbourg Brothers created it, which portray the twelve months of the year.
How do the regions of the Upper Nile and Lower Nile differ?
The Lower Nile is a broad, flat, and fertile region, opening into the Mediterranean Sea and thus allowing for contact with a variety of peoples and cultures. The Upper Nile region is isolated. The only fertile areas are along the river, with high cliffs surrounded by desert.
For what type of art is the Mausoleum of Galla Placidia famous?
The Mausoleum of Galla Placidia is famous for its mosaics.
Who succeeded the Minoans and when? Where were their largest settlements?
The Minoans were succeeded by the Mycenaeans between 1500-1600 B.C.E. Their largest settlements were in the southern part of Greece known as the Peloponnesus, and in the northern areas of Athens and Thebes.
Why did the Persian king Darius invade Greece?
The Persian king Darius invaded Greece in 490 B.C.E. as punishment for Athenian support of an uprising against Persian rule in the Greek colonies in Asia Minor.
What is the language of the Koran? Why is it taught that the Koran (qur'an) should not be translated from the Arabic?
The Qur'an is written in Arabic and, because this was the language through which God spoke to Muhammad, any translations are not considered authentic, but rather interpretations.
What were the Roman equivalent to the Greek gods: - Zeus - Aphrodite - Hera - Athena - Poseidon - Hermes - Apollo - Dionysus
The Roman equivalent to the Greek gods were as follows:or battle scenes in the siege against Troy, and focuses on the valor of the fallen heroes as well as portraying the tragic consequences of Achilles' stubbornness and pride. The Odyssey is a fantastic narrative which is filled with adventures and weaves in many sub-tales. Unlike the Iliad, its main aim seems to be to entertain rather than instruct. - Zeus = Jupiter - Aphrodite = Venus - Hera = Juno - Athena = Minerva - Poseidon = Neptune - Hermes = Mercury - Apollo = Apollo - Dionysus = Bacchus
What territories did the Roman expansion acquire? What was the impact of this expansion on the state and the colonies?
The Roman expansion included the seizure of Carthage from the Phoenicians and their territories in North Africa, Spain and Sicily. They went on the take control of all the territories surrounding the Mediterranean, including Greece, Asia Minor and the Middle East. This substantial expansion stretched the administrative capabilities both within Rome and in its outer territories.
What was the name of the most important style of architecture between 1000 and 1150?
The Romanesque style of architecture was the most popular style between 1000 and 1150.
What Roman class was represented in the Senate?
The Senate represented the Roman aristocracy (the patricians).
What was the name for the medieval course of study that included grammar, rhetoric, and logic?
The course of study that included grammar, rhetoric, and logic was called the trivium.
What practices of the Neanderthals are considered an indication of the existence of religious beliefs?
They carefully buried their dead and placed funerary offerings in the graves.
What were two characteristics of Romanesque architecture?
Two characteristics of Romanesque architecture are the external covering of the churches with elaborate carvings and statues and the use of heavy stone arches.
Who was Dante's guide for the first two parts of his journey? For the third and last part?
Vergil guides Dante through hell and purgatory. Beatrice guides him from purgatory into heaven.
Who was the greatest of all Roman poets? Which of his poems was to Roman literature what the Iliad and the Odyssey were to Greek literature?
Vergil, the greatest Roman poet, is best known for his work the Aeneid, a tale written in the tradition of the great Greek epics, the Iliad and the Odyssey. This poem aimed to glorify the Roman Empire and create a heroic myth about its founders in much the same vein as the Greek works of Homer.
Who was Villard de Honnecourt and what do his notes reveal about the task of cathedral building?
Villard de Honnecourt was an architect, engineer and contractor whose notes reveal the technical complexity and logistical challenges involved in building a cathedral
What name is given to the period of Greek history between the Persian Wars and Alexander the Great?
The period of Greek history between the Persian Wars and Alexander the Great is called the Classical Period.
What name is given to the period of history following the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C.E. (and until the rise of the Roman Empire)?
The period of history between the death of Alexander the Great in 323 B.C.E. and the rise of the Roman Empire is called the Hellenistic period.
What explanation is given for the rapid spread of Islam?
The simplicity of the teachings of Islam
What is the name of the small pieces of stone used to make a mosaic? How did their setting illuminate the church?
The small pieces of stone used to make a mosaic are called tesserae and illuminate the church by refracting light.
What are teachings of Islam regarding: a. the eating of pork? b. the consumption of alcoholic beverages? c. polygamy?
forbids the eating of pork. forbids the consumption of alcoholic beverages. permits polygamy.
What is the purpose of the niche in the wall (mihrab) of the mosque?
mihrab indicates the direction of Mecca towards which all Muslims prostrate themselves in prayer.
How many sides are there to the Dome of the Rock? What color is its dome?
octagonal topped by a golden dome.
What are the four most important sources of information about Jesus?
the gospels of Mark, Matthew, Luke, and John.
What is the meaning of the word "Islam"?
Submission to God
How does Sulla's Sanctuary of Fortuna in Palestrina demonstrate Roman values?
Sulla's Sanctuary of Fortuna in Palestrina is a testimony to the Roman regard for symmetry and grandeur as well as their strong identification with the Greeks. It was modeled after buildings in Hellenistic Pergamum.
What is the meaning of the Greek word "icon"? What is an "iconoclast"?
"icon" mean image, and an "iconoclast" is one who destroys images (specifically religious images).
What was the original meaning of the word "prophet"?
"one who speaks for another."
What is the meaning of the title "Christ"? of "Messiah"?
"the anointed one''
According to the illustration and the floor plan of Old Saint Peter's Basilica, Rome: - What was the basic shape of the basilica? - What was the name of its courtyard? - What was the name of the central portion, between the side aisles? - What was the name of the area intersecting the nave at right angles?
- The basilica is a long rectangle - The courtyard is called the atrium - The central point between the side aisles is the nave - The area intersecting the nave is call the transept
What was the primary purpose of a "reliquary"?
A "reliquary" contains the body or belongings of a saint or other important person considered to be sacred.
What events in the last hundred years of the Roman Republic would cause many Romans to welcome the rule of an emperor such as Augustus?
A cycle of revolts and power struggles ending in violence during the last hundred years of the Roman Republic caused many Romans to welcome Emperor Augustus and the stability of his reign.
What change is reflected by the art of the Old Kingdom and the Middle Kingdom? What works demonstrate this change?
A major reform of the Egyptian religious system was introduced by the pharaoh Amenhotep IV who replaced the traditional worship of multiple deities with one sole deity, Aton-Ra.
What are the causes of the many contradictions in Classical Greek mythology?
A primary reason for the contradictions in Greek mythology owes to the relative isolation of the regions. In addition, because the myths were considered regional folklore, poets and artists felt a certain freedom to choose and manipulate details to suit their own expressive desires. Moreover, most of these tales were passed down orally many years before they were written.
What is the difference between a "prophet" and a "seer"? How is the figure of a prophet unique and important to the Judeo-Christian traditions?
A prophet is one who speaks with the authority of God whereas a seer has the power to foretell events in the future. to bring people back onto the path of righteousness and observance to their faith in order to prepare them for the coming of the Messiah.
According to the Bible, who was the father (patriarch) of the Hebrews?
Abraham.
What was the purpose of the Delian League according to Athens? According to the other Greek city-states?
According to Athens, the Delian League, whose treasury was on the island of Delos, was created in order to protect the states from possible outside attack. The other Greek city-states—Thebes, Corinth, and Sparta—suspected that Athens was using this treasury, and the power of the Delian League, for its own purposes rather than the welfare of all the states. They believed that Athens aimed to subjugate the independent states, creating an empire under Athenian rule.
The two principal schools of philosophy in Rome were Epicureanism and Stoicism. Both had origins in Greece.
According to Epicurus the gods play no part in human affairs or earthly events and thus humans should live free from superstitious fear of events they cannot control or the threat of divine retribution.
According to the Benedictine horarium, what time of day did monks arise? What happened after the None (ninth hour)? When did they go to bed?
According to the Benedictine horarium, monks arise at 2:00 am. At none, or the ninth hour, work ended and the last Divine Office was held. At 5:15, they went to bed.
Why are mosques decorated with abstract art and calligraphy rather than pictorial representations?
According to the Islamic faith, it is impudent to portray God's image or the image of his most cherished creation, man.
In what three areas could a medieval holder of the M.A. receive a doctorate?
After obtaining a Master of Arts, a student could go on to study law, medicine, or theology.
Identify the Muslim scholar for each work below: 1)described small pox 2)philosopher who reconciled Greek philosophy with Islam 3)physician to sultan of Baghdad and studied poisons 4)id work in optics and lenses 5)invented algebra and created modern numerical system 6)eveloped decimal fractions philosophy 7)philosopher who criticized Greek
Al-Hazen did work in optics and lenses. Rhazes described small pox. Al-Uqlidisi developed decimal fractions. Moses Maimonides physician to sultan of Baghdad and studied the nature of poisons. Al-Khwarizmi invented algebra and created modern numerical system. Al-Ghazali attacked Greek philosophy. Averröes reconciled Greek philosophy with Islam.
What characteristic features are present in the three examples of korai? In what ways do they differ?
All three figures are shown standing with arms at their sides and hands closed. In addition, their feet are positioned with one slightly in advance of the other. In all three figures, the shoulders are square and the hair long and similarly textured. The expressions on the faces are bland, content. Figures 2.6 (left) and 2.7 (center) depict the traditional style of korai, in which the female figure (kore) is clothed and careful attention is given to her drapery, where as the male figure (kouros) in nude. Figure 2.8 (right), although maintaining a traditional stance, is distinct for its realistic depiction of anatomical features of the male body, which exhibits a muscular power not seen in earlier kouros
What is an "illuminated" book (or manuscript)?
An "illuminated" book or manuscript is one in which the pages are lavishly decorated with calligraphy and artwork.
Why did Antigone disobey King Creon?
Antigone disobeyed King Creon because she wanted give her brother Polynices a proper burial despite the King's proclamation that Polynices was a traitor.
What two opposing aspects of Greek civilization were represented by Apollo and Dionysus? Are the two forces represented by Apollo and Dionysus also part of our "human nature"?
Apollo represented the power of the mind: logic and order. Dionysus represented emotions, which could lead to violence and chaos. In respect to Greek civilization-the supreme heights of which were achieved in the arts-government, society and philosophy were reflections of the attributes of Apollo; whereas the fighting and fierce competition between the states reflected the qualities of Dionysus. This duality is evident in each being on a personal level as well.
What was the answer of Aquinas to the problem of truth via reason vs. truth via divine revelation?
Aquinas attempted to navigate a middle route between truth via reason (rationalism) and truth via divine revelation (fideism). He believed that reason and revelation worked in conjunction to lead men towards divine truth.
What was the cause of the Peloponnesian War and the eventual result of the war?
Athens' use of the Delian League's treasury for Athenian building projects ultimately led to the Peloponnesian War. Athens fell to the Spartan army in 404 B.C.E.
In what ways were the early Greeks a continuation of the Mycenaean culture? What events mark the division between the Bronze Age and the Iron Age?
Athens, the city that was to become the intellectual center of Classical Greece had been a Mycenaean city long before the Iron Age. However, the Mycenaean civilization ended abruptly and violently in 1100 B.C.E.
What basic problem is the subject of The Consolation? What is the solution according to Lady Philosophy?
Boethius attempts in his Consolation to reconcile the concept of free will with an omnipotent-omniscient God. God exists within eternity and while humans act with free will, God sees the present moment, the future, and consequences of our actions simultaneously.
By the eighth century B.C.E., what had become the principal subject of Greek art?
By the eighth century B.C.E., the human form had become the focus of much of Greek art.
The English word "Bible" comes from the Greek name of what ancient city?
Byblos
What is the encaustic method of painting and who used this method?
Byzantine icons and by the Romans for funerary portraits. It entails painting with hot colored wax
What was the original Greek name for Constantinople? When and in whose honor was it renamed?
Byzantium. Emperor Constantine.
What was "Carolingian minuscule"? Why was it important? How did it compare with "majuscule?"
Carolingian "minuscule" (lower case) was a simplified form of calligraphy that was standardized and much easier to read than the script used beforehand. "Majuscule" is the uppercase version of this script.
What was the basic shape of Charlemagne's chapel at Aachen? How did Charlemagne's visit to the church of San Vitale in Ravenna influence the design for his royal chapel at Aachen / Aix la Chapelle?
Charlemagne's chapel at Aachen was shaped in an octagon. It was modeled upon the Church of San Vitale which had impressed him during a visit to Ravenna.
What was significant about Charlemagne's receiving the keys to the Holy Sepulcher?
Charlemagne's receiving the keys to the Holy Sepulcher symbolized his image as guardian of the most important shrines in the Christian world.
How has Byzantine culture been preserved in later ages?
Christian Orthodox conservatism which values the continuation of traditional styles and practices, and through the works of the Greek scholars who emigrated to the West
Who was commissioned by the Duke of Burgundy to provide sculpture for the Chartreuse monastery near Dijon?
Claus Sluter was commissioned to provide a sculpture (The Well of Moses, 1406).
What city was the center of imperial life in the Roman Empire in the early fifth century?
Constantinople
In what year did Constantinople fall to the Turks? To what use was Hagia Sophia converted after 1453? What is it used for today?
Constantinople fell to the Turks in 1453 C.E. after which the Hagia Sophia was converted into a mosque. Today it is a museum.
In Botticelli's Dante, why is Dante wearing a laurel wreath? Why do we call our leading poet a "poet laureate"?
Dante is depicted wearing a laurel wreath as a sign of honor hearkening back to the great Roman poet Vergil. This tradition continues in the honorable designation of the title "poet laureate" to outstanding poets.
Why can early medieval drama be described as "liturgical drama"?
Early medieval drama can be described as "liturgical drama" because it was originally part of the liturgy of the Christian church.
Describe Egyptian religious thought. What is the name for the Egyptian sacred texts? Who are Osiris, Isis, and Horus? What do they symbolize?
Egyptians believed that all would be given immortality (in a very literal sense) in the next world as a reward for leading a virtuous life. Egyptian sacred texts are articulated in the Book of the Dead. The major deities are Osiris, the king of the underworld who judges the dead, his wife and sister Isis, the protecting mother goddess, and Horus, their son, who symbolizes the afterlife.
Who was the first emperor of the Roman Empire? What reforms did he implement?
Emperor Augustus (Octavian) was the first Roman Emperor. His reforms included establishing a vast central administration with numerous civil service positions as well as redefining the role of military soldiers as defenders of Rome's borders, engineers, police, surveyors, and agricultural laborers.
Which emperor in C.E. 312 issued in Milan a decree of toleration for Christianity (and other religions)?
Emperor Constantine
What emperor designed the Pantheon (C.E. 126)? What was architecturally significant about the shape of its roof? What was the function of its oculus?
Emperor Hadrian designed the Pantheon, built c. C.E. 126. The building is architecturally unique for its huge oculus at the top of the dome which provides it with light.
Who was the first of the great Florentine painters discussed in Vasari's Lives of the Artists (1550)?
Giotto di Bondone to be the first of the great Florentine painters.
What was the subject of the stained glass window "Notre Dame de Belle Verriere"?
God is the subject of the stained glass window "Notre Dame de Belle Verriere."
What role did mythology serve in the lives of the Greeks?
Greek mythology reflected human lives and foibles in order for people to understand themselves, rather than, as in the Judeo-Christian model, to provide divine guidance. Also, these tales served as a body of folklore which was a rich source of cultural tradition for the Greeks.
What type of chant became the predominant type of music in Roman Catholic churches during the early middle ages?
Gregorian chant became the most prevalent form of music in Roman Catholic churches during the early middle ages.
What is the difference between high relief and low relief sculpture?
High relief figures project out of the stone background to the extent that they appear three-dimensional. In low relief sculpture, the carving preserves the flatness of the stone, with less of the stone cut away from the figure.
In Aristophanes' Lysistrata, what action did the women of Athens take to convince men to stop their war?
In Aristophanes' Lysistrata, the women of Athens withhold sex from their husbands until they have negotiated peace and brought an end to war.
What were the signs of his intense meditations on the Passion of Christ?
His meditations on the Passion of Christ induced stigmata which is the physical manifestation of the wounds which Christ suffered on the cross.
What great historian wrote the History of the Peloponnesian War? (And why was he a "great historian"?)
History of the Peloponnesian War, written by Thucydides, gives a detailed and impartial description of events and attempts to analyze human motives and reactions to understand why the conflict occurred. This was a seminal work in the development of historical writing because rather than seeking to entertain the reader, its aim was to discover and record the truth of events.
What event in 622 marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar?
In 622 Muhammad and his followers were forced to leave Mecca. This is called hegira, and marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
Why was the Greek belief in "nothing in excess" important in avoiding hubris?
Hubris, which meant excessive ambition, could be avoided, along with many other problems, if humans stayed within reasonable limits, living in equilibrium with the natural world and creating a balanced society.
What is Lux Nova? How did Gothic architecture allow more of the "light of God" into the cathedral?
I refers to the Light of God. The pointed arch allowed for added height and thus larger windows, and the improved weight distribution reduced the number of interior columns necessary to support the roof. Therefore, more light was brought into the cathedral unimpeded by interior structures.
In what sense did the Roman Empire survive until C.E. 1453?
If the city of Constantinople is seen as a continuation of the Roman Empire, then it could be argued that the Roman Empire fell when the city was overtaken by the Ottoman Turks in C.E. 1453.
Who was the first great architect known to history? What did he build?
Imhotep, the first great architect known to history, designed the earliest pyramid for his master Zoser.
What was the goal of the Reconquista? When did it occur?
In 1492 the Christian Spanish led a successful campaign to drive the Muslims out of Spain.
What was the significance of the founding of Constantinople in C.E. 330?
In C.E. 330, Emperor Constantine moved the capital of Rome to the East and named it Constantinople.
In C.E. 800 on Christmas Day, what significant event took place in Saint Peter's Basilica in Rome?
In C.E. 800 on Christmas Day, Pope Leo III crowned Charles the Great (Charlemagne) emperor of the Roman Empire in the West.
In Doric architecture, what were the triglyphs? the metopes?
In Doric architecture, triglyphs are vertical bands in the frieze which divide the metopes (panels), which can in turn be decorated with sculpture or painting.
How important was "will" for the salvation of Everyman? Do you think that "will" (including the willingness to learn) is important?
In Medieval Christian theology, the "will" was a preeminent requirement for salvation. In the play Everyman, this comes in the forms of willingness to learn (Knowledge), act (Good Deed), and convert (Confession).
Why did Saint Francis of Assisi drop out of society and begin to lead a life of self-denial?
In his youth Saint Francis of Assisi was captured in battle and imprisoned, after which he decided to lead a life of poverty in devotion to God and the teachings of Christ.
What were the various responses to the catastrophe of the plague?
In response to the plague, some people turned to debauchery, some to religious mania, some fled to the countryside, some took their vengeance out upon others (Jews, "witches"), and the poor revolted.
What were the subjects of the fourteenth-century cycle of plays underwritten by craft or merchant guilds?
In the fourteenth-century, the liturgically based plays had become so elaborate that they were brought out of the church and performed in the central squares during feast days. Entire cycles of plays developed, which portrayed numerous stories from the Bible appropriate for particular festivals. These were underwritten by craft or merchant guilds.
Look carefully at the illustration from the Lecture of Henricus de Alemania (Henry of Germany). What does this scene tell us about a university class in the Middle Ages? Notice the students and their actions as well as the professor.
In the illustration, we see that there are women as well as men in the group. Some students are paying close attention to the lecture while others are sleeping or talking. The professor sits in a chair above the class and reads from a book. All the figures are robed.
In the ivory carving of the Crucifixion, what is the figure directly at the left of Jesus doing? What are the two men with spears doing? Who are the figures at the top of the relief?
In the ivory carving of the Crucifixion, the figure directly to the left of Jesus is capturing his blood (a reference to the Eucharist), the two men on either side of him below holding spears are inflicting wounds, and the angels above are welcoming his soul into heaven.
What was unusual about the portrayal of Christ in the mosaic of The Good Shepherd (from the fifth-century mausoleum of Galla Placidia in the city of Ravenna)?
In the mosaic of The Good Shepherd in Galla Placidia, Christ is beardless and wears a Roman toga.
How did the technique of red-figured style vases compare with the earlier black-figured technique?
In the red-figure style of vase painting, the background, as well as some finer details of the figures, were in black, leaving the red clay underneath to show the main motifs and figures. This technique differed from black-figure vase painting, in which the motifs and figures were depicted in black onto the background of the vase (of red, orange or beige colored clay).
What was the subject of the cuneiform inscribed on the "Stele of Hammurabi"?
Inscribed on the Stele of Hammurabi are the codes, believed to have been dictated by the sun god to the king, which were to be referred to when handling issues of social justice, particularly that of relationships between family members.
Which architectural style did Romans prefer to the Doric and Ionic? How did this style different from the Doric and Ionic?
Instead of the Ionic or the Doric style of architecture, Romans preferred the Corinthian style in which capitals are decorated with leaves opening upwards and the columns rest on simple bases.
How did the plague impact economic stability in fourth-century Europe?
It led to a huge deficit in agricultural labor and generally manpower. This in turn brought about famine and a series of uprisings of the lower classes.
Why has the Decameron often been called the "Human Comedy" (in contrast to Dante's "Divine" Comedy)?
It recounts a series of comic, sometimes explicit, tales about human affairs and folly in contrast to the great epic of the period.
What architect was responsible for the magnificent dome of Florence Cathedral?
It was designed by Brunelleschi.
Where was the residence of the Papacy from 1309 to 1367?
It was located in Avignon in Southern France.
What musical qualities distinguished ars nova from the music of the previous era?
It was more complex rhythmically and melodically and had richer harmonies than previous music.
What was Justinian's major architectural achievement?
Justinian ordered the rebuilding of the Church of Hagia Sophia (Holy Wisdom) under the design of Anthemius of Tralles and Isidore of Miletus.
What was Emperor Justinian's most important legal achievement? Explain.
Justinian revised and codified Roman law which entailed categorizing all previous judgments, codes, statements, and decrees, and summarizing them into to a coherent, functional legal system to which the courts could refer.
What were some of the targets of Juvenal's Satires?
Juvenal's Satires targeted the Roman aristocracy, which he criticized for their degeneracy and malice. In some of his works, his antipathy is fiercely directed at women.
How did Socrates' opponents feel about their ignorance being exposed by the questions of Socrates? (Also, consider how various people today react to their ignorance being exposed.)
Like many today, Socrates' targets didn't appreciate their ignorance being exposed by his questions. Eventually his enemies brought Socrates to trial on the charge of collaboration with the tyrants in an unsuccessful coup.
Compare "monotheism," "henotheism," and "polytheism."
Monotheism is the belief in one supreme god. Henotheism is the worship of one particular god polytheism is the worship of many gods.
Who was the leader of the Hebrews in their exodus from Egypt?
Moses
How did scholars working in Baghdad's "House of Wisdom" contribute to the dissemination of Aristotle's writings in the West?
Much of Aristotle's work came to the West through Arabic versions transcribed by scholars working in The House of Wisdom. These versions were later translated into Latin and used by major western philosophers, such as Thomas Aquinas.
Who is considered the founder of Islam? When and where was he born? When did he begin speaking publicly about his ideas of religious reform (at about the age of forty)?
Muhammad, born in 570 in Mecca. He began speaking publicly about his religious ideas after he had received a series of revelations from God.
How did the focus of Mycenaean art and architecture differ from that of the Minoans?
Mycenaean art, unlike that of the Minoans, focused on death and war. They built large fortressed palaces and richly furnished tombs. Similar to the Minoans, the walls of the Mycenaean palaces were decorated with frescos; however, in contrast with the vivacity of the Minoans, these works are characterized by a solemn, dignified style.
How was national unity maintained despite these differences? What role did religion play in maintaining this unity?
National unity was maintained through a strong central government controlled by the pharaoh, whose power was further consolidated by the belief in his divinity. Moreover, this power was cemented by a priesthood which disseminated the national religion throughout the Upper and Low Nile regions through a strict adherence to traditional rituals and arts.
How did the events at Pompeii inspire later artists and What action did Oedipus take regarding his father? his mother? According to the Greeks, why did Oedipus deserve to suffer for his actions? writers?
Oedipus, despite his efforts to avoid his tragic fate, unknowingly killed his father and married his mother. According to the Greeks, Oedipus deserved to suffer for his actions because he was guilty of the character flaw hamartia (excessive pride and stubbornness.)
What are some obstacles to our understanding of the pre-Socratic philosophers? How was their work important to later development in Western thought?
Our understanding of pre-Socratic thought is impeded by the kinds of questions posed and the fragmentary nature of the texts. The pre-Socratics were grappling with problems which had not previously been posited, and for which there was no common language or system of analysis. It is their emphasis on human reason (rather than divine revelation) to understand the world and solve its problems which would later form the core of the humanist movement in the Renaissance and the Enlightenment.
Why is painted pottery emphasized in the study of the first three hundred years of Greek art?
Painted pottery is the main focus of the study of the first 300 years of Greek art because little other art has survived into modern times.
What was "parchment," and why was it the principal material for writing in the middle ages?
Parchment was the material used in scrolls and texts and was made from stretched and dried animal skins, particularly cow and sheep skin. Papyrus was not available in medieval times, nor did people in that era have knowledge of how to make paper.
What is unique about the Villa of Mysteries. What are "pendentives"? How were they used to combine a dome with a basilica?
Pendentives are triangular masonry devices that can serve as a base for a drum and cupola. It is able to distribute the weight of the dome and diffuse its pressure. This allowed for more height and enabled architects to bring more light into the basilica.
What institution, founded by Plato in 387 B.C.E., was the first permanent institution in western civilization devoted to education and research?
Plato founded the Academy, which was the first permanent institution in western civilization devoted to education and research.
What events do Plato's works the Apology, the Crito, and Phaedo record?
Plato's Apology records Socrates' speech in his own defense at the trial; the Crito relates Socrates' reasons for not escaping from prison; and Phaedo recounts Socrates' last days and discussion with his friends about death and the immortality of the soul.
What town, 150 miles south of Rome and destroyed by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in C.E. 79, has provided much valuable information about life in the early Roman Empire?
Pompeii, 150 miles south of Rome and destroyed by an eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in C.E. 79, has provided a great deal of information about life in the early Roman Empire.
Which pre-Socratic philosopher(s) 1) tried to explain all phenomena in terms of one or more material elements? 2) believed that mathematical relationships represented the underlying principles of the universe? 3) believed that there are an infinite number of small particles? 4) believed that our world was subject to constant change ("It is not possible to step into the same river twice")? 5) claimed that reality is perfect and unchanging? 6) introduced the idea of the four elements: fire, water, earth, and air? 7) were Atomists and later influenced the nineteenth-century scientists John Dalton and Werner Heisenberg?
Pre-Socratic philosophers: 1) Thales of Miletus tried to explain all phenomena in terms of one or more material elements. 2) Pythagorus of Samos believed that mathematical relationships represented the underlying principles of the universe. 3) Anaxagoras of Clazomenae believed that there are an infinite number of small particles. 4) Heraclitus of Ephesus believed that our world was subject to constant change ("It is not possible to step into the same river twice"). 5) Pamenides of Elea and his pupil Zeno claimed that reality is perfect and unchanging. 6) Empedocles of Acragas introduced the idea of the four elements: fire, water, earth, and air. 7) Leucippus and Democritus were Atomists and later influenced the 19th-century scientists John Dalton and Werner Heisenberg.
In what ways did the Etruscans help Rome rise to power?
Prior to their exposure to Etruscan culture, Rome was a small community ruled by tribal chiefs. Under Etruscan influence Rome was transformed into city with a working infrastructure and a thriving cultural center which had contact with other Italian cities and the various peoples of the Mediterranean.
Which Queen of this period is the subject of perhaps the most famous of all Egyptian portraits? Who was her husband?
Queen Nefertiti, wife of Akhenaton, was the subject of some of the most famous pieces of art during this period. They show a grace and elegance that contrasts with the heavy, serious style seen in the official portraits of the Middle Kingdom.
What is the holy book of Islam? How is the book organized?
Qur'an and is divided into 114 chapters (surâs).
From 402 to 476, what city served as the western capital of the Roman Empire?
Ravenna
What are the two main periods of Roman history called? 509 to 31 B.C.E.: ______________ 31 B.C.E. to C.E. 476: ______________
Roman history is divided into the period of the Roman Republic, 509 to 31 B.C.E, and Imperial Rome, 31 B.C.E. to C.E. 476.
What characteristics of earlier styles did Roman sculptors build upon? What new elements are seen in Roman sculpture?
Roman sculptors built upon both Greek and Etruscan aesthetic elements. Their interest in proportion and balance is taken from Greek sensibilities whereas their emphasis on conveying emotional quality of the subject harkens back to the Etruscans. Roman sculptors excelled at portraiture, revealing the personality through subtle details in the features of their subjects.
What did the Romans value more: good government and military prowess, or cultural and artistic achievements?
Romans believed themselves to excel in the areas of good government and military prowess, rather than the arts or philosophy. Roman talent lay in their ability to assimilate and build upon the creative innovations of other peoples, particularly the Greeks.
Who was the author of the most famous "Rule" in western monasticism? What were the important requirements of the monastic life as set forth by him?
Saint Benedict of Nursia was the author of the "Rule" in western monasticism. The requirements of a monastic life were to live a communal life under a chosen abbot, to live in poverty, chastity, and stability, and to live a life of prayer, work, and study.
What two famous churches were built during the reign of the Emperor Constantine (1) in the Vatican (326)? (2) in Jerusalem (345)?
Saint Peter's Basilica was built in 326 C.E. in what is now the Vatican in Rome, and The Church of the Holy Sepulcher was built in Jerusalem in 345 C.E.
How is Dante's depiction of Satan a complete contrast to God?
Satan is depicted as sluggish, bestial, dumb, and frozen, which is in direct contrast to the reason, power, and mobility of God.
Who were the three most important kings of the United Monarchy?
Saul, David, and Solomon.
How do scholars traditionally divide the history of ancient Egypt?
Scholars traditionally divide the history of ancient Egypt into four major periods: the Old Kingdom, Middle Kingdom, New Kingdom, and Late Period. The period preceding this is called Predynastic. These divisions were first established by Manetho in his work A History of Egypt (c. 280 B.C.E.).
What Greco-Roman philosophy is associated with Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius?
Seneca, Epictetus, and Marcus Aurelius were adherents to the Greco-Roman philosophy Stoicism.
What were the subjects of the wall reliefs of the Assyrian palaces at Nimrud and Nineveh?
Several of the carvings depict religious subjects; however, the palaces were also decorated with hunting scenes as well as battle scenes, especially scenes portraying the battles which occurred near the fall of the Assyrian Empire.
Why did Sir Arthur Evans refer to the early civilization of Crete as Minoan?
Sir Arthur Evans' excavations initially sought to discover the veracity of the myth of King Minos as well as the existence of his kingdom. When he (and other archeologists) successfully uncovered a civilization that predated the Mycenaeans, he called them Minoans.
How much of our knowledge of Socrates comes from his own writings? from the works of his student Plato?
Socrates didn't set down any of his ideas in writing; it was his disciples—particularly Plato—who recorded his teachings.
What was the method used by Socrates to test the truth of traditional ideas?
Socrates tested the truth of traditional ideas by subjecting them to intense questioning.
What were some Roman contributions to western civilization?
Some Roman contributions to Western civilization include the Roman alphabet, the division of the year into twelve months (our calendar), the success of the Christian church, the basis of a democratic republic, and a codified legal system.
What religious legends surround the location of the Dome of the Rock?
Some believe it to be the site where the Prophet Muhammad stopped on this journey to heaven. Others hold that it was where Abraham sacrificed his son Ishmael, and some maintain the mosque rests on the location where Adam died and is buried.
What is the "archaic smile" and what are some explanations given for this expression?
The "archaic smile" is a facial expression common to the statues of the Archaic period. Some critics attribute it to the technical inexperience of the sculptors whereas others attribute it to the desire on the part of Greeks to convey a sense of certainty and optimism in a world becoming increasingly unstable.
According to the Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace), how did Augustus want to be seen by his contemporaries, and to be remembered by future generations?
The Ara Pacis (Altar of Peace) expresses Augustus' desire to be seen as a force of peace and a major figure on the path of Rome's glorious ascendancy, which began with the founding of Rome (as personified by the figure of Aeneas). He is portrayed as the Supreme Leader, followed by members of his family, thereby signaling his intention of establishing hereditary succession.
What civilization (ruled by Cyrus the Great) conquered the Assyrian Empire? How far east did the Persian Empire extend? How far west? Around 330 B.C.E., who conquered the Persians?
The Assyrian Empire was conquered by two tribes: the Persians and the Medes. The Persians, later taking full control, extended their Empire from the Mediterranean to the Indus River. They were subsequently conquered by Alexander the Great c. 330 B.C.E.
What descriptive name has been given to the Athenian civilization of the last half of the fifth century B.C.E.?
The Athenian civilization of the last half of the fifth century B.C.E. has also been called the Golden Age of Greece.
What is considered to be the last great imperial building in Rome?
The Basilica of Constantine is considered to be the last great imperial building in Rome.
What was the significance of the Battle of Actium (31 B.C.E.) in the history of the Roman Republic?
The Battle of Actium (31 B.C.E.) brought an end to the struggle for power between Octavian and Marc Antony, after which Octavian assumed supreme control of Rome and its territories.
What was the Benedictine motto? (_________ & _________)
The Benedictine motto is "work and pray."
Which medieval cathedral (southwest of Paris) is famous for its 173 stained glass windows?
The Cathedral of Chartres
What was the meaning of the Chi-Rho monogram?
The Chi-Rho Monogram incorporates both the first two letters in the word "Christ" and the letters alpha and omega (first and last letters in the Greek alphabet which are a symbol of Christ in the Book of Revelations).
Where are the Christian symbols chi and rho in the mosaic of Emperor Justinian and courtiers in the Church of San Vitale?
The Christian symbols chi and rho are on the shield of one of his soldiers standing at his right.
How does the shape of the Church of San Vitale in Ravenna differ from traditional basilica design?
The Church of San Vitale in Ravenna is octagonal.
How is Dante's Divine Comedy organized? What is the significance of the number 3 in Christianity and how does Dante use this number throughout the Divine Comedy?
The Divine Comedy is organized into one hundred cantos, thirty-three cantos for each sections with the first canto as an introduction. Dante also divides his poetry into a rhyme scheme based three-line stanzas (terza rima). This emphasis symbolizes the Holy Trinity.
What was the greatest work of fiction of the late middle ages (it has been considered the literary equivalent of Chartres Cathedral)?
The Divine Comedy is the greatest work of fiction of the late middle ages.
What building in Jerusalem is one of the earliest and most spectacular achievements of Islamic architecture?
The Dome of the Rock, built in the late seventh century in Jerusalem
How did the Doric order of architecture differ from Ionic styles or orders of architecture (figure 2.17)? . the base? . the capital? . the frieze?
The Doric order architecture differed from the Ionic style or order of architecture in the following ways: Doric Ionic base? no base layered base capital? abacus and echinus abacus and volutes frieze? triglyphs and metopes continuous band
What people occupied Rome from 616 to 510 B.C.E.? What is the name for the part of Italy ruled by these people?
The Etruscans occupied the region of Tuscany in what is now northern central Italy from 616 to 510 B.C.E.
Who were the opposing sides in the Battle of Roncesvalles (778)? What epic was inspired by this battle?
The Franks fought the Muslims of Córdoba in the Battle of Roncesvalles in 778 which inspired the epic poem the Song of Roland.
What eighth-century ruler of the Franks was celebrated in the eleventh-century Song of Roland?
The Song of Roland celebrates the life and achievements of Charlemagne.
Explain the development of the Sumerian system of writing and how it was used to benefit society.
The Sumerians developed the cuneiform system of writing, in which wedge-shaped signs were engraved into clay tablets to be dried and stored. This enabled the increasingly complex market systems to record transactions.
Who were the Sumerians? Where did they live?
The Sumerians were early agricultural communities which settled in the Fertile Crescent, the area between the Tigris and the Euphrates rivers.
What was the most important work of Thomas Aquinas (d. 1274)?
The Summa Theologica was the most important work of Thomas Aquinas.
What is the name of the ethical rules given to Moses after the Exodus but before the Hebrews reached the promised land?
The Ten Commandments
What was the name for the course of study that included arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy?
The course of study that included arithmetic, geometry, music, and astronomy was called the quadrivium.
What is the name for the end of a church, often semicircular, where the altar is found?
The apse is located at the end of the church surrounding the altar
What was the most common subject of the art of the Cyclades islands?
The art of the Cyclades islands was dominated by the production of marble statues ranging in height from a few inches to nearly life-sized. These statues usually depicted a female figure with folded arms and were often buried with the dead.
What features characterize art in the Middle Minoan period? How does this differ from Egyptian and Mesopotamian art?
The art of the Middle Minoan period is characterized by its liveliness and color and its celebration of nature, as seen in pottery, jewelry, seal stones, and frescos. Unlike Egyptian and Mesopotamian art, the Middle Minoans showed no interest in creating monumental art, preferring instead to focus on creating small, even miniature, works of great skill.
What was the function of the chorus in Greek theater?
The chorus represented the point of view of the spectator and interpreted and commented upon the characters, their words, and actions.
How did the cathedral help the illiterate "read" the bible?
The decor-both the interior, with scenes and sacred figures depicted in the windows and statues, and the exterior, with its profusion of high relief work, gargoyles, and statuary-allowed the illiterate to learn about the teachings of the Bible.
What development during the Neolithic period made possible the growth of communities and villages?
The discovery of farming and crop cultivation as well as improved techniques in farming and grain storage made the growth of stable communities and villages possible.
Which Greek dramatist showed the most sympathy for the problems of women (Medea, Phaedra) who lived in a society dominated by men?
The dramatist Euripides showed the most sympathy for the problems of women living in a male dominated society, particularly through the characters of Medea and Phaedra.
What event marks the beginning of the history of the Roman Republic?
The emergence of the Roman Republic is dated to 510 B.C.E., when the Romans expelled the Etruscans from Roman territories. Over the next two centuries their cities were conquered, the Etruscans were given full citizenship, and ultimately assimilated into Roman society.
What was the relationship of Charlemagne's "palace school" at Aachen to the Carolingian Renaissance? For what purpose did he draw scholars to Aachen?
The establishment of Charlemagne's "palace school" at Aachen contributed to Carolingian Renaissance because it brought together some of the brightest scholars of the period, increased literacy throughout the kingdom, and led to the establishment of a standard curriculum (The Seven Liberal Arts) and systemized pedagogy.
How did the events at Pompeii inspire later artists and writers?
The excavations at Pompeii inspired several poets and novelists. Pompeian motifs were used in contemporary china, and artists such as Ingres, David, and Canova were influenced by Pompeian painting and sculpture.
What was the purpose of the fifteenth-century play Everyman
The fifteenth-century play Everyman is a morality play which aims to instruct the audience about the Bible and encourage people to live a moral, Christian life.
How did St. Francis' emphasis on humanity influence the religious arts?
The figure of St. Francis has been the subject of innumerable works of art, and some historians believe he is the source of the emergence of the many depictions of nature in the Renaissance.
What figures found on the main decorative band of the Dipylon Amphora reinforce the belief this was used as a grave marker?
The figures of the pallbearers carrying the body of the dead man as well as the mourners on either side of this group (the funeral ceremony), shows that the Dipylon Amphora was a grave marker.
What was the first great literary work of ancient Mesopotamia?
The first great literary work of Mesopotamia was the Epic of Gilgamesh.
What event in C.E. 476 marks the formal end of the Roman Empire in Western Europe?
The formal deposition of Emperor Romulus Augustulus, the last Roman emperor, in C.E. 476 marks the formal end of the Roman Empire in Western Europe.
What is depicted in the frieze on the Arch of Constantine? What is the name for this style of sculpture? How does it differ from earlier Roman art?
The frieze on the Arch of Constantine is a relief carving which depicts the Emperor receiving homage from the Senate. The figures show an aesthetic move away from the realism and attention to detail of earlier Roman works, and foreshadow the stylized forms seen in the Middle Ages.
What was the meander found on Greek geometric pottery?
The meander was a maze pattern painted on much of early Greek pottery. It was highly intricate and complex, with seeming emphasis on mathematical relationships in the designs.
What was the lesson conveyed through the story of Achilles?
The message conveyed is that we are responsible for our actions and that our misdeeds will have consequences for us and our loved ones. Achilles behaved unreasonably by denying military aid to Agamemnon and in consequence many lives, including that of his friend Patroclus, were lost.
Which are the three oldest universities in Europe?
The oldest universities in Europe are Oxford and Cambridge, The University of Bologna, and the University of Paris.
What was innovative about organum?
The organum was innovative because introduced polyphony (music composed of more than a single plainchant line).
What dramatic event in 1348 greatly reduced the population of Europe? Where did the plague originate and how was it spread?
The outbreak of the bubonic plague 1348 greatly reduced the population of Europe. The plague originated in Central Asia and was imported via rats on the trade ships coming into port at Messina, Sicily. From there it spread rapidly throughout Italy, France, Spain, Germany, the British Isles, the Netherlands, Norway and Sweden in a series of waves which lasted from approximately December 1347 through December 1349.
What is depicted in the two paintings of the Lorenzetti brothers? What scene passed away and what scene can we still find today?
The painting "The Good City" depicts the rich and dynamic life of Siena before the plague. His painting of the same name depicts the Tuscan countryside, which remains much the same today, unlike the city scene of his brother.
In what respects did the art of Cimabue and Duccio di Buoninsegna move beyond the Italo-Byzantine tradition?
The paintings exhibit more realism and attention to the emotional expressions of their subjects than was typical.
What is unique about the palace of Diocletian at Split on the Adriatic coast?
The palace of Diocletian at Split on the Adriatic coast is built in the design of a military camp and incorporates eastern motifs.
In the Dagulf Psalter, what is depicted in the cover panels?
The panels of the Dagulf Psalter depict the process by which the work came into being from the orders of King David to the final proofing.
In what way was the practice of goddess worship in the various cultures of early history passed down from the Iron Age to the Greeks (figures 1.3. 1.5 and 1.28)?
The practice of goddess worship-as seen in the Paleolithic period with the Venus of Willendorf, the Middle Egypt period in the cult of Isis, and the fertility-mother goddess of the Minoans-was carried forward by the Greeks in the Iron Age in the worship of the goddesses Artemis, Hera, and Demeter, all of whom perpetuated the belief in the sacredness of fertility, whether in human, animal or agricultural terms.
What was the purpose of the pyramids of the Old Kingdom? What colossal statue stood next to the pyramids at Giza?
The pyramids were built to perpetuate the memory of the departed upper classes and to underscore their power. The Sphinx stands next to the pyramids at Giza.
How were the rulers of ancient Egypt entombed?
The rulers of ancient Egypt were embalmed (mummified) and entombed in massive funerary monuments filled with food, figurines which symbolized servants (shawabtis), and other necessities and adornments.
What visual art is even older (c. 28,000-23,000 B.C.E.) than the paintings you gave as your answer for question 4? What was the subject of these oldest statues and statuettes?
The statuettes of female fertility figures, such as the Venus of Willendorf, are the oldest representations in visual art.
Who were the three great masters of Classical Greek drama?
The three great masters of Classical Greek drama are Aeschylus, Sophocles, and Euripides.
What were the three main regions or states, and which cities controlled them?
The three main regions were Attica, which was controlled by Athens; Boeotia, which was controlled by Thebes; and Laconia, which was controlled by Sparta.
Who were the two most important rulers of the Late Roman Empire in the West? - C.E. 284-305: - C.E. 306-337:
The two most important rulers of the Late Roman Empire in the West were Emperor Diocletian, C.E. 284-305, and Emperor Constantine, C.E. 306-337.
What were the two principal schools of philosophy in Rome? Where did they originate?
The two principal schools of philosophy in Rome were Epicureanism and Stoicism. Both had origins in Greece.
What shape is the tympanum shown in Pentecost? What shape is the mandorla which surrounds the figure of Christ?
The tympanum shown in Pentecost is in the shape of a half-circle and the mandorla is in an almond shape.
What was the importance of the victory of Charles Martel at Poitiers in 732?
The victory of Charles Martel in 732 at Poitiers stopped the surge of Islamic dominance into Europe.
Why did the young people in Boccaccio's Decameron leave Florence to live in the country for ten days?
The young men and women fled Florence because of the onslaught of the plague.
What type of building was the most important structure of the towns and cities of ancient Mesopotamia?
The ziggurat was the most important structure in the towns and cities of ancient Mesopotamia.
What evidence is there of the importance of music in early Greek culture (figures 2.18 and 2.19)?
There are numerous references to music in the literature, found in such tales as the myth of Orpheus and his lyre, and in the Iliad, in which the hero Achilles plays the lyre. In visual arts too there are numerous depictions of musicians and their instruments. Certain gods and goddess were associated with instruments; for example Apollo and Hermes with the lyre, and Athena with the flute
What major shift occurred in Greek art and sculpture in 700 B.C.E.? What concerns were reflected in the statues prior to this shift compared with the period after 700 B.C.E.?
There was a major shift towards realism in Greek art and sculpture in 700 B.C.E. Prior to this shift, the human form was depicted in static postures, and designs were abstract. These characteristics were very much influenced by Egyptian traditional art. After 700 B.C.E., Greek artists abandoned these stylized, traditional forms, investigating instead the true nature of appearance, and seeking to depict how their subjects really looked.
Who are Achilles, Agamemnon, Hector, Patroclus, and Priam?
These are the main characters in Homer's Iliad: Achilles, Agamemnon, and Patroclus are part of the Greek siege against the city of Troy. Priam is the king of Troy, and Hector, his son, is the main Trojan military leader.
What shift occurred in the role of the musician and composer in the fourteenth century?
They were creating and performing music for secular audiences as well as for religious services.
What was the significance of the passage of Hortesian Law? How did this influence the balance of power in the Republic?
This redistribution of power led to increasing tensions between the patrician and plebian, which became further strained with the rise of a strong plebian middle class.
How many voices sang in a motet? Beginning in the thirteenth century, in what languages were motets sung? What was the content of the songs?
Three voices sang in a motet. motets were sung in both French and Latin. The melodies sung in Latin were religious in content whereas those sung in French were love lyrics.
In the relief Akhenaton, Nefertiti, and Three of Their Children, a. Is the pharaoh shown as all-powerful? b. What is the object depicted at the top center of the relief?
a. Akhenaton is shown as a member of the royal family, but not as all-powerful. He, like his family, is depicted absorbing the rays of the sun. b. The central object is the sun, the manifestation of the god Aton, who Akhenaton served. This relief demonstrates that divine power comes to the royal family through Aton.
What musical tradition had the greatest influence on early Christian churches?
chanting sacred texts
What was distinctive about the way Rumi recited his poetry? What did Rumi believe to be the purpose of combining recitation with dance?
he recited his poetry while dancing, holding his arms outstretched and spinning. the combination of movement and poetry would focus his attention completely on Allah.
What did excavators of Dura-Europos find? What does this tell us about religious life in the third century?
religious life in the 3rd century was quite complex and the peoples of this time represented a spectrum of beliefs including Christianity, Roman and Semitic paganism, Judaism, and followers of the cult of Mithra.
In The City of God, what was Augustine's explanation for the Visigoth sacking of Rome in 410?
that it was part of God's greater plan.
Who conquered the northern kingdom (Israel) in the eighth century B.C.E.? the southern kingdom (Judah) in 587 B.C.E.?
the Assyrians and the Babylonians
Looking at the floor plan for the Church of Saint Sernin, what is the basic shape of the church? . What are the nave and the aisles? . Where are the chapels? . What is the narthex . What is the transept? . Where is the apse and the ambulatory? . Where is the choir?
the church is in the shape of a cross. .The narthex is at the main entrance to the church. .The nave is the main hall that runs the length of the church flanked by two parallel aisles or walkways. .The chapels are at the far end and both sides of the transept. .The transept is the intersecting section of the "cross," and is a walkway. .The apse and the ambulatory are at the farthest ends of the church from the entrance. .The choir is in the middle of the intersection of the transept and the nave.
What is responsorial singing? What is antiphonal singing?
the congregation sings a repeated response to the cantor's lines. the congregation and the cantor alternately chant the verses of a psalm.
In what century did Muslims arrive in Spain? What city became the Muslim capital in Spain?
the eighth century and established Córdoba
What are the five pillars of Islam? a. to believe and recite that there is _____ God. b. to pray _____ times each day facing ________. c. to donate _____________________________. d. to _____ during the holy month of ____________. e. to make a ___________ to Mecca.
to believe and recite that there is one God. to pray five times each day facing Mecca. to donate to charity. to fast during the holy month of Ramadan. to make a pilgrimage to Mecca.
