Year 8 2015 - Medieval History Quiz
Please read each question and type your answers with care.
- 1.
In which year did the Western Roman Empire finally fall?
- A.
476 BCE
- B.
410 BC
- C.
AD 476
- D.
410 CE
Correct Answer
C. AD 476Explanation
In AD 476, the Western Roman Empire finally fell. This date marks the end of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe. The fall of the empire was a result of various factors including economic decline, invasions by barbarian tribes, and internal political instability. The fall of the Western Roman Empire had significant implications for the history and development of Europe.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The collapse of Rome led to
- A.
A period of creativity and inventions
- B.
A long period of increased conflict and uncertainty
- C.
Greater peace and prosperity, since the Empire had been brutal and oppressive
- D.
The establishment of new libraries and centres of culture
Correct Answer
B. A long period of increased conflict and uncertaintyExplanation
The collapse of Rome resulted in a long period of increased conflict and uncertainty. With the fall of the Roman Empire, there was a power vacuum that led to struggles for control among various factions. This period, known as the Dark Ages, was marked by political instability, invasions, and economic decline. The loss of centralized authority and infrastructure led to a breakdown in social order, leaving people vulnerable to violence and insecurity.Rate this question:
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- 3.
The name of the first Holy Roman Emperor, crowned in AD 800, was ____________.Type the name only.
Correct Answer
CharlemagneExplanation
Charlemagne was crowned as the first Holy Roman Emperor in AD 800. He was a prominent figure in European history, known for his military conquests and efforts to promote education and culture. His coronation marked the revival of the Roman Empire in Western Europe and the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire. Charlemagne's reign had a significant impact on European politics, religion, and culture, making him a crucial figure in medieval history.Rate this question:
- 4.
The Vikings came from _____________.
- A.
Russia
- B.
Northern England
- C.
Normandy
- D.
Scandinavia
Correct Answer
D. ScandinaviaExplanation
The Vikings originated from Scandinavia. Scandinavia refers to the region in Northern Europe that includes the modern-day countries of Norway, Sweden, and Denmark. The Vikings were seafaring people who were known for their exploration, raids, and trading activities during the Viking Age, which lasted from the late 8th century to the 11th century. They had a significant impact on the history and culture of Europe, and their influence can still be seen in various aspects today.Rate this question:
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- 5.
Under the feudal system, a king or lord provided a/n __________ to his ____________.
- A.
Feast; serfs
- B.
Vassal; fiefs
- C.
Fief; vassals
- D.
Army; vassal
Correct Answer
C. Fief; vassalsExplanation
In the feudal system, a king or lord would provide a fief to his vassals. A fief was a piece of land or estate that was granted to a vassal in exchange for their loyalty and military service. The vassals, in turn, would swear an oath of fealty to the king or lord and provide them with military support and other services. This system allowed the king or lord to maintain a loyal and powerful group of vassals who would serve and protect their interests.Rate this question:
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- 6.
The bubonic plague was spread through __________ ; the pneumonic plague, on the other hand, was spread through ___________.
- A.
The fleas on black rats; the blood of infected people
- B.
The blood of infected people; the fleas on black rats
- C.
The fleas on black rats; the droplets of infected people
- D.
The droplets of infected people; the fleas on black rats
Correct Answer
C. The fleas on black rats; the droplets of infected peopleExplanation
The bubonic plague was spread through the fleas on black rats because the fleas would bite the infected rats and then bite humans, transmitting the bacteria. On the other hand, the pneumonic plague was spread through the droplets of infected people, as the bacteria could be transmitted through respiratory droplets when infected individuals coughed or sneezed.Rate this question:
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- 7.
Which statement about medieval "trial by ordeal" is accurate?
- A.
The outcome of the ordeal was presumed to represent the will of the King
- B.
Ordeals were based on the assumption that you were guilty until proven innocent
- C.
Ordeals were based on the assumption that you were innocent until proven guilty
- D.
The nature of your ordeal was determined by a jury of your peers
Correct Answer
B. Ordeals were based on the assumption that you were guilty until proven innocentExplanation
During medieval times, "trial by ordeal" was a legal practice in which the guilt or innocence of an accused person was determined by subjecting them to a painful or dangerous test. The accurate statement is that ordeals were based on the assumption that the accused was guilty until proven innocent. In this system, the belief was that if the accused survived the ordeal or showed no signs of injury, it was seen as a divine intervention and proof of their innocence. This practice was rooted in the idea that God would protect the innocent and punish the guilty, hence the presumption of guilt until proven otherwise.Rate this question:
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- 8.
Which example of a source below is a primary source?
- A.
A reenactment of the Battle of Crécy, intended as a way of investigating the power of longbows in medieval warfare
- B.
A description of the Bayeux Tapestry by Simon Schama, a famous English historian
- C.
A picture of a scold's bridle that was used in the Middle Ages as a punishment for "nagging women"
- D.
A biography of Jean Froissart based on his writings
Correct Answer
C. A picture of a scold's bridle that was used in the Middle Ages as a punishment for "nagging women"Explanation
A picture of a scold's bridle that was used in the Middle Ages as a punishment for "nagging women" is a primary source because it is an actual artifact from the time period being studied. It provides direct evidence of the existence and use of scold's bridles in the Middle Ages, allowing researchers to draw conclusions based on firsthand information. The other options are all secondary sources, as they are interpretations or descriptions of events or objects rather than original, firsthand evidence.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Which statement below is accurate?
- A.
This is a primary source showing the simple cottages in which peasants lived in the Middle Ages.
- B.
This is a primary source showing a medieval motte and bailey castle.
- C.
This is a secondary source showing a wattle and daub cottage inhabited by a lord in the Middle Ages.
- D.
This is a secondary source showing a wattle and daub cottage inhabited by a peasant in the Middle Ages.
Correct Answer
D. This is a secondary source showing a wattle and daub cottage inhabited by a peasant in the Middle Ages.Explanation
This answer is correct because the source is depicting a wattle and daub cottage, which was a common type of housing for peasants in the Middle Ages. Additionally, the mention of the cottage being inhabited by a peasant further supports the accuracy of the statement.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Which set of words below would be described in a dictionary as having originated from "Old Norse"?
- A.
House, man, brother, Tuesday
- B.
Rotten, freckles, anger, mire
- C.
Justice, melancholy, solitude, joy
- D.
Priest, wine, angel, bishop
Correct Answer
B. Rotten, freckles, anger, mireExplanation
The set of words "rotten, freckles, anger, mire" would be described in a dictionary as having originated from "Old Norse". Old Norse was a North Germanic language that was spoken by the inhabitants of Scandinavia during the Viking Age. These words are likely to have been borrowed from Old Norse and have remained in usage in the English language.Rate this question:
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- 11.
Which answer below accurately describes the structure in the picture?
- A.
This is a motte and bailey castle, a kind of fortification that required substantial building time but was almost impregnable.
- B.
This a moat and bailey castle, a short-term fortification that was relatively easy to build but also easily burnt.
- C.
The buildings in the bailey are called the keep and they were the last retreat when the castle was under attack.
- D.
This is a motte and bailey castle, a kind of fortification that was relatively easy to build but also vulnerable to attack by fire.
Correct Answer
D. This is a motte and bailey castle, a kind of fortification that was relatively easy to build but also vulnerable to attack by fire.Explanation
The given answer accurately describes the structure in the picture as a motte and bailey castle. It explains that this type of fortification was relatively easy to build but also vulnerable to attack by fire.Rate this question:
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- 12.
Which description below is an accurate description of a medieval serf?
- A.
A serf was bonded to his/her master, had to work on the lord's land and is sometimes described in modern accounts as a "semi-slave".
- B.
A serf was a free peasant whose life was difficult and harsh, but who retained the right to work for wages and travel from place to place.
- C.
A serf was valued highly in the medieval hierarchy, since his/her work provided the food needed by all.
- D.
Another name for a "serf" is a "thrall", a person who became a slave through being a prisoner of war or because of unpaid debts.
Correct Answer
A. A serf was bonded to his/her master, had to work on the lord's land and is sometimes described in modern accounts as a "semi-slave".Explanation
The correct answer is that a serf was bonded to his/her master, had to work on the lord's land, and is sometimes described in modern accounts as a "semi-slave". This description accurately captures the essence of a serf's status and responsibilities during the medieval period. Serfs were legally tied to the land and were obligated to provide labor and other services to their lord. While not considered full slaves, they lacked many freedoms and were subject to the control of their master.Rate this question:
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- 13.
The picture below shows ____________, which was built by ______________ and was one of his methods for ___________ the English people.
- A.
The Tower of London; Harold Godwinson; defending
- B.
A motte and bailey castle; William the Conqueror; subjugating
- C.
The Tower of London; William the Conqueror; subjugating
- D.
A motte and bailey castle; Harold Godwinson; defending
Correct Answer
C. The Tower of London; William the Conqueror; subjugatingExplanation
The correct answer is the Tower of London; William the Conqueror; subjugating. The Tower of London was built by William the Conqueror as one of his methods for subjugating the English people. It served as a symbol of his power and control over the city of London.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Which answer below accurately describes the Hundred Years War?
- A.
A series of battles between England and Spain, lasting from 1237 until 1353 and entailing mostly military encounters between trained knights.
- B.
A series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, London and Paris, which were dominated by the French crossbow
- C.
A series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, Poitiers and Agincourt; despite early English successes, the War ended with the French controlling nearly all French land.
- D.
A series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, Poitiers and Agincourt; despite early French successes, the War ended with the English controlling nearly all French land.
Correct Answer
C. A series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, Poitiers and Agincourt; despite early English successes, the War ended with the French controlling nearly all French land.Explanation
The Hundred Years War was a series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, Poitiers, and Agincourt. Despite early English successes, the war ended with the French controlling nearly all French land. This explanation accurately describes the events and outcomes of the Hundred Years War, highlighting the major battles and the ultimate result of French control.Rate this question:
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- 15.
Which statement about the Black Death is accurate?
- A.
It is believed that about a third of the European population succumbed to it.
- B.
It is believed that about two-thirds of the European population succumbed to it.
- C.
The main groups who were struck by this plague were the poor and the clergy.
- D.
The septicaemic plague led to the slowest and most torturous form of death.
Correct Answer
A. It is believed that about a third of the European population succumbed to it.Explanation
During the Black Death, it is believed that about a third of the European population succumbed to the disease. This pandemic, which occurred in the 14th century, resulted in a significant loss of life across Europe. The high mortality rate was due to the highly contagious nature of the disease and the lack of effective medical treatments at that time. The Black Death affected people from all social classes and not just specific groups such as the poor or the clergy.Rate this question:
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- 16.
During the Hundred Years War, ...
- A.
The most telling and significant weapon in the first battles was the French crossbow.
- B.
The knights on both sides followed the code of chivalry, which involved protecting the weak and acting in the interests of universal justice.
- C.
The French peasant girl, Joan of Arc, led the French army to victory over the English at Orleans, only to be burned as a "heretic".
- D.
Chain mail gradually replaced plate mail, because chain mail was lighter and more protective.
Correct Answer
C. The French peasant girl, Joan of Arc, led the French army to victory over the English at Orleans, only to be burned as a "heretic".Explanation
The correct answer is the French peasant girl, Joan of Arc, led the French army to victory over the English at Orleans, only to be burned as a "heretic". This answer is correct because it accurately describes the role and fate of Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years War. Joan of Arc, a young peasant girl, played a crucial role in leading the French army to a significant victory against the English at the Siege of Orleans. However, she was later captured by the English, accused of heresy, and ultimately burned at the stake.Rate this question:
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- 17.
This is part of Jean Froissart's account of the Battle of Crécy:There were about 15 000 crossbowmen but they were worn out because they had marched about 26 kilometres that day, fully armed... They got themselves roughly in order and approached the English. They shouted loudly, to frighten the English, but the English paid no attention...The English archers took one step forward and shot their arrows with such force and speed that it looked as if were snowing. These arrows cut through armour and cut the strings of the crossbows. All the crossbowmen turned round and retreated. The English carried on shooting, and some of their arrows fell on the French knights, driving them into the crossbowmen, causing great confusion.Tick ALL the statements below that are accurate:
- A.
A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute.
- B.
The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle.
- C.
This battle was one of those fought during the Norman Conquest.
- D.
This is a primary source.
- E.
The crossbowmen were also knights.
- F.
Since Jean Froissart was a Frenchman, his view of events cannot be considered accurate.
Correct Answer(s)
A. A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute.
B. The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle.
D. This is a primary source.Explanation
A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute: This statement is accurate because the passage mentions that the English archers shot their arrows with force and speed, suggesting that they were able to shoot multiple arrows in a short amount of time.
The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle: This statement is accurate because the passage emphasizes the effectiveness of the English archers' arrows in cutting through armor and disabling the crossbows, indicating the significant impact of the longbow in the battle.
This is a primary source: This statement is accurate because the passage is an excerpt from Jean Froissart's personal account of the Battle of Crécy, making it a firsthand source of information.
The other statements are not accurate based on the information provided in the passage. There is no mention of the battle being part of the Norman Conquest, the crossbowmen are not described as knights, and there is no indication that Jean Froissart's view of events is inaccurate due to his nationality.Rate this question:
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- 18.
A person who was accused of committing a crime might be forced to carry a hot coal or poker for a number of steps, then wait three days to determine whether the wound festered or healed. This was called an ordeal by _______. Type the word only.
Correct Answer(s)
fireExplanation
In medieval times, an accused person might undergo an ordeal by fire as a means of determining their guilt or innocence. They would be forced to carry a hot coal or poker for a certain number of steps and then wait for three days to see if the wound became infected or healed. If the wound healed, it was believed that God had intervened and the person was considered innocent. However, if the wound festered, it was seen as a sign of guilt. This practice was used as a form of trial by ordeal to determine the truth.Rate this question:
- 19.
This shame mask, like the scold's bridle, was a punishment predominantly intended for _________; it is an indication that _____________________.
- A.
Men; public humiliation was frowned upon in medieval Europe
- B.
Women; torture and humiliation were often considered acceptable in the law and order systems of medieval Europe
- C.
Women; public humiliation was frowned upon in medieval Europe
- D.
Men; torture and humiliation were often considered acceptable in the law and order systems of medieval Europe
Correct Answer
B. Women; torture and humiliation were often considered acceptable in the law and order systems of medieval EuropeExplanation
Women; torture and humiliation were often considered acceptable in the law and order systems of medieval Europe. This is because the shame mask and scold's bridle were specifically designed to punish women. These devices were used to publicly humiliate and silence women who were deemed to be disobedient or outspoken. It reflects the patriarchal society of the time, where women were subjected to harsh punishments for not conforming to societal norms.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Hanging, drawing and quartering a person is a prolonged method of execution. Punishments that lead to the death of the victim are called ___________ punishments.
Correct Answer
capitalExplanation
Punishments that lead to the death of the victim are called "capital" punishments. Hanging, drawing, and quartering is a specific example of a capital punishment, which involves a prolonged and brutal process of execution.Rate this question:
- 21.
Which foods below did a Viking NOT eat?
- A.
Wheat, barley and rye
- B.
Sugar, tomatoes, potatoes
- C.
Onions, leeks, peas and cabbage
- D.
Meat from wild boar, hare and elk
Correct Answer
B. Sugar, tomatoes, potatoesExplanation
The Vikings did not eat sugar, tomatoes, and potatoes. While they did consume grains like wheat, barley, and rye, as well as vegetables like onions, leeks, peas, and cabbage, they did not have access to sugar, tomatoes, and potatoes as these were introduced to Europe after the Viking Age. Additionally, the Vikings relied heavily on hunting and fishing for their meat sources, including wild boar, hare, and elk.Rate this question:
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- 22.
Which statements below accurately describe a stone castle in the later Middle Ages?Tick ALL correct statements.
- A.
The great hall could be used for banquets, meeting places and even as a communal bedroom.
- B.
The toilet often opened directly onto the moat of the castle.
- C.
The portcullis was a wooden drawbridge that could be lowered to allow people to cross the moat.
- D.
The barbican was the iron grid that could be raised and lowered to protect the gate.
- E.
Until the introduction of gunpowder, this kind of fortification was the most effective defensive measure for holding land.
- F.
A stone castle was more vulnerable to attack than a motte and bailey castle.
- G.
Castles were a symbol of wealth and power.
- H.
Building castles was one of the methods used by William the Conqueror to consolidate his conquest of England.
Correct Answer(s)
A. The great hall could be used for banquets, meeting places and even as a communal bedroom.
B. The toilet often opened directly onto the moat of the castle.
E. Until the introduction of gunpowder, this kind of fortification was the most effective defensive measure for holding land.
G. Castles were a symbol of wealth and power.
H. Building castles was one of the methods used by William the Conqueror to consolidate his conquest of England.Explanation
In the later Middle Ages, a stone castle had a great hall that served multiple purposes such as banquets, meetings, and even as a communal bedroom. The toilet in the castle often opened directly onto the moat. Until the introduction of gunpowder, stone castles were the most effective defensive measure for holding land. Castles were seen as symbols of wealth and power. Building castles was one of the methods used by William the Conqueror to consolidate his conquest of England.Rate this question:
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- 23.
These Anglo-Saxon letters are called _________.Type the word only.
Correct Answer(s)
runesExplanation
The correct answer is "runes" because Anglo-Saxon letters were often referred to as runes. Runes were a writing system used by the Anglo-Saxons in early medieval England and Scandinavia. They were typically used to write in Old English and Old Norse languages. Runes were characterized by their angular shapes and were often carved into stone or wood. They held both practical and mystical significance in Anglo-Saxon culture, being used for communication as well as for divination and magical purposes.Rate this question:
- 24.
The Romans had one (see the picture above). So did Charlemagne. Britain used to have one, but now it only has a Commonwealth. The word you need is defined as an extensive group of states of countries ruled over by a single monarch or sovereign state. Type the word below.
Correct Answer(s)
empireExplanation
An empire is a political entity comprised of multiple states or countries that are governed by a single monarch or sovereign state. The clue suggests that the Romans, Charlemagne, and Britain used to have such entities, indicating that the word being sought is "empire."Rate this question:
- 25.
Please fill answer below_______
Correct Answer(s)
N/A
.jpg "Which statement below is accurate?")
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Mar 22, 2023Quiz Edited by
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May 21, 2015Quiz Created by
Roslyn Green
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