Medieval History Quiz: Trivia!
.
- 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
The Western Roman Empire finally fell in AD 476. This date marks the deposition of Romulus Augustus, the last Roman emperor of the West, by Odoacer, a Germanic chieftain. This event signaled the end of the Western Roman Empire and the beginning of the Middle Ages in Europe.Rate this question:
-
- 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 and a lack of centralized authority, leading to political instability and frequent wars among the successor states. This period, known as the Dark Ages, was characterized by economic decline, social unrest, and a decline in cultural and intellectual achievements. The collapse of Rome did not immediately lead to peace and prosperity, but rather a prolonged period of turmoil and uncertainty.Rate this question:
-
- 3.
The name of the first Holy Roman Emperor, crowned in AD 800, was ____________.
Correct Answer
CharlemagneExplanation
Charlemagne was crowned as the first Holy Roman Emperor in AD 800. He was a prominent figure in European history and his reign marked the beginning of the Holy Roman Empire. Charlemagne's rule had a significant impact on the political, cultural, and religious landscape of medieval Europe. He is often regarded as one of the greatest medieval rulers and his coronation as the first Holy Roman Emperor solidified his position as a powerful and influential leader.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. This region, which includes present-day countries such as Norway, Sweden, and Denmark, was the homeland of the Viking people. They were seafaring warriors and traders who embarked on voyages of exploration, raiding, and colonization during the Viking Age, which lasted from the late 8th century to the early 11th century. Scandinavia's geographical location, with its access to the North Sea and the Baltic Sea, allowed the Vikings to navigate and establish settlements in various parts of Europe, including Russia, Northern England, and Normandy. However, their origins can be traced back to Scandinavia itself.Rate this question:
-
- 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 service. The vassals, in turn, would pledge their allegiance to the king or lord and provide military or other forms of support when needed. This system created a hierarchical structure where the king or lord held the ultimate authority and the vassals held land and owed allegiance to the higher-ranking lord.Rate this question:
-
- 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, typically through coughing or sneezing. This allowed the bacteria to be directly inhaled by others, leading to the spread of the disease.Rate this question:
-
- 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
Ordeals were based on the assumption that you were guilty until proven innocent. This means that individuals who were accused of a crime would have to undergo a physical or spiritual test, such as being submerged in water or holding a hot iron, to prove their innocence. The belief was that if they were truly innocent, a divine power would protect them from harm during the ordeal. This practice reflected the medieval justice system's presumption of guilt, placing the burden of proof on the accused to demonstrate their innocence.Rate this question:
-
- 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 original artifact from the time period being studied. It provides direct evidence of the existence and use of scold's bridles as a form of punishment in the Middle Ages.Rate this question:
-
- 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
The correct answer is "This is a secondary source showing a wattle and daub cottage inhabited by a peasant in the Middle Ages." This can be inferred from the description provided, which mentions a wattle and daub cottage and refers to the inhabitants as peasants. Additionally, the use of the term "secondary source" suggests that the image is not an original or firsthand account, but rather a representation or interpretation of historical information.Rate this question:
-
- 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 spoken by the inhabitants of Scandinavia during the Viking Age. These words are likely to have been borrowed from Old Norse and have been incorporated into the English language over time.Rate this question:
-
- 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 states that this type of fortification was relatively easy to build but also vulnerable to attack by fire. This suggests that while it may have been quicker to construct, it was not as secure as other types of castles and could be easily destroyed by fire.Rate this question:
-
- 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 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 reflects the status and conditions of a medieval serf. Serfs were legally bound to the land and were obligated to work for their lord. They did not have the freedom to leave or choose their occupation. Although they were not considered full slaves, they were still subject to the control and authority of their masters. This description captures the essence of a serf's life during the medieval period.Rate this question:
-
- 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 a symbol of his power and to subjugate the English people. It was initially used as a royal residence and later became a prison and a place of execution. Its imposing structure and strategic location on the River Thames made it an effective tool for William to assert his dominance over the English population.Rate this question:
-
- 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 correct answer accurately describes the Hundred Years War as a series of battles between England and France, including those at Crécy, Poitiers, and Agincourt. It highlights that despite early English successes, the war ended with the French controlling nearly all French land. This explanation provides a clear and concise summary of the key events and outcome of the Hundred Years War.Rate this question:
-
- 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, approximately one-third of the European population is believed to have succumbed to the disease. This pandemic, which occurred in the 14th century, was one of the deadliest in history. The plague spread rapidly, causing widespread devastation and death across Europe. The high mortality rate affected people from all social classes, not just the poor and the clergy. The Black Death had different forms, including bubonic, pneumonic, and septicaemic plague, with the septicaemic plague being one of the most severe forms. However, it is not accurate to say that it led to the slowest and most torturous form of death.Rate this question:
-
- 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". -
- 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 it 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. You should find three.
- A.
A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute.
- B.
Since Jean Froissart was a Frenchman, his view of events cannot be considered accurate.
- C.
The crossbowmen were also knights.
- D.
The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle.
- E.
This battle was one of those fought during the Norman Conquest.
- F.
This is a primary source.
- G.
A longbow arrow could not pierce armour.
Correct Answer(s)
A. A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute.
D. The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle.
F. This is a primary source.Explanation
The given answer choices are accurate for the following reasons:
1. A well trained longbow archer could shoot several arrows a minute: This is supported by the description of the English archers shooting their arrows with force and speed, creating the illusion of snowfall.
2. The longbow was the most significant and devastating weapon in this battle: This is evident from the fact that the English archers were able to cut through armor and disable the crossbowmen, causing them to retreat.
3. This is a primary source: The passage is taken from Jean Froissart's firsthand account of the Battle of Crécy, making it a primary source of historical information.Rate this question:
-
- 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 would undergo an ordeal by fire. They would be made to carry a hot coal or poker for a certain number of steps, and then wait for three days to see if the resulting wound festered or healed. This was believed to be a divine judgment, as it was believed that if the person was innocent, their wound would heal miraculously. If the wound festered, it was seen as a sign of guilt. The ordeal by fire was a common method of determining guilt or innocence during that time period.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 Europe -
- 20.
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. The Vikings were known for their agricultural practices and mainly consumed crops like wheat, barley, and rye. However, sugar, tomatoes, and potatoes were not available in Scandinavia during the Viking Age. These food items were introduced to Europe after the Vikings had ceased their exploration and conquests. Therefore, the Vikings did not have access to sugar, tomatoes, and potatoes in their diet.Rate this question:
-
- 21.
Which statements below accurately describe a stone castle in the later Middle Ages?Tick ALL correct statements. You should find five.
- 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.
- I.
Castles were not important during the Hundred Years War, since gunpowder was commonly used by this time.
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
During the later Middle Ages, a stone castle had a great hall that served various purposes such as banquets, meetings, and even as a communal bedroom. Additionally, the toilet often opened directly onto the moat of the castle. Until the introduction of gunpowder, stone castles were considered the most effective defensive measure for holding land. Castles were also seen as symbols of wealth and power, and building castles was one of the methods used by William the Conqueror to consolidate his conquest of England.Rate this question:
-
- 22.
These Anglo-Saxon letters are called _________.Type the word only.
Correct Answer(s)
runesExplanation
The given correct answer for this question is "runes". Runes are a set of ancient letters used in the early Anglo-Saxon period. They were primarily used for writing inscriptions on stones, jewelry, and other objects. Runes had both practical and mystical significance, and were often associated with magic and divination. They played an important role in the communication and recording of information in the early Germanic cultures.Rate this question:
- 23.
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
The word "empire" is the correct answer because it fits the description given in the question. It refers to an extensive group of states or countries that are ruled over by a single monarch or sovereign state. The examples provided, such as the Romans, Charlemagne, and Britain, all had empires at some point in history. The word "empire" accurately captures the concept of a centralized ruling power over multiple territories.Rate this question:
- 24.
The term for a Christian holy war or "War of the Cross" is _____________.
Correct Answer(s)
crusade, crusadesExplanation
The term for a Christian holy war or "War of the Cross" is crusade or crusades. This term refers to a series of military campaigns launched by European Christians in the Middle Ages with the goal of reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control. The Crusades were seen as a religious duty and were often accompanied by the promise of spiritual rewards. These campaigns had a significant impact on European history and relations between Christians and Muslims.Rate this question:
- 25.
Which options below correctly describe the Islamic religion?Tick ALL the correct options. You should find three.
- A.
Younger than Judaism, but older than Christianity
- B.
The Islamic word for a holy war is a jihad.
- C.
The great Muslim general during the Third Crusade was called Richard the Lionheart.
- D.
The five "pillars" of Islam include praying five times a day and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
- E.
The Islamic civilisation was more advanced in science and medicine than Europeans Christians during the Middle Ages.
- F.
Jerusalem is a holy city for Christians and Jews, but has no significance to Muslims.
Correct Answer(s)
B. The Islamic word for a holy war is a jihad.
D. The five "pillars" of Islam include praying five times a day and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.
E. The Islamic civilisation was more advanced in science and medicine than Europeans Christians during the Middle Ages.Explanation
The Islamic word for a holy war is a jihad, which refers to a struggle or effort in the way of God. The five "pillars" of Islam include praying five times a day and making a pilgrimage to Mecca, which are essential religious duties for Muslims. Additionally, the Islamic civilization was indeed more advanced in science and medicine than European Christians during the Middle Ages, with significant contributions in various fields such as astronomy, mathematics, and medicine.Rate this question:
-
.jpg "Which statement below is accurate?")
Quiz Review Timeline +
Our quizzes are rigorously reviewed, monitored and continuously updated by our expert board to maintain accuracy, relevance, and timeliness.
-
Current Version
-
Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
ProProfs Editorial Team -
Jun 06, 2016Quiz Created by
Roslyn Green
Back to top