Summer Reading Assignment

Advanced Placement European History 2008-9

The following assignment is based on the book A World Lit Only By Fire written by William Manchester

This assignment should be type written and is due the 1st day of class.  No exceptions.

I. Define each of the following words making sure that your definition agrees with the context in which the word is used. Write a new sentence using each word appropriately. Page numbers have been provided to help find the appropriate sense of meaning.

eviscerated 36

emasculated 44

misogyny 70

lubricity 71

invested 71

cupidity 74

satyrical 74

admixture 79

comity 102

speciosity 104

vituperative 109

apostasy 113

parricide 125

irascible 137

salubrious 137

crepitation 139

derogating 162

sophistry 204

prerogative 206

panjandrums 268

venery 270

obloquy 288

indefatigable 299

II. In a well written paragraph explain what characteristics  Manchester attribute’s to the medieval mind? How were these features manifested in the life of ordinary people as well as among the powerful and influential?

III. Select two of the following five options.  Write a well written paragraph which provides a complete answer.  Be certain that you answer all parts of each selected option.

    1) The German princes and people supported Luther's reformation more for political and economic reasons than for religious ones. Explain detailing examples from the book.

    2) A split in the Catholic Church or a movement for reform was inevitable because of the abuses and worldliness of those who were its leaders and spokesmen.  Assess the validity of this statement and support your answer from the reading.

    3) According to prelate Alvaro Pelayo of Spain (1500s) "Wolves are in control of the church and feed on [Christian] blood!" Explain this quotation for the time period 1200-1517 and assess its validity.

    4) Using the cartoon on page 200 as a starting and reference point, discuss the actions taken by the Catholic Church to institute reform and assess whether or not the Lutherans (source of the cartoon) are justified in their feeling. (Note: The 3 men in the cartoon are Cardinals and the painting behind the altar is of the Pope. Also look at page 132)

    5) Give specific thoughts, values and actions of Magellan, which caused Manchester to single him out as the exemplar of the Renaissance spirit. What is the contrast between the Renaissance spirit (Magellan) and the medieval mind (Chapter 1)?

IV. The last section of chapter I, The Medieval Mind, ends with a list of names (pg 27-28).  Pick 3 of these names and explain why Manchester implies that these names are "dragons" lurking to destroy the medieval status quo (You should explain each name in a separate paragraph of at least 8 sentences).

If you have questions about this assignment you may email me at: treadwl@comcast.net

I must receive your email BEFORE July 19, 2008 as I will be on a family vacation after that date and will not have access to email.