Crises of the Late Middle Ages

Religious and Ethical Systems – In the 1300s, Europe was torn apart by religious strife, the bubonic
plague, and the Hundred Years’ War
 Events of the 1300s led to a change in attitudes toward religion and the state, a change
reflected in modern attitudes

Terms: Avignon, Great Schism, John Wycliffe, Jan Hus, bubonic plague, Hundred Years’ War, Joan of Arc

Worldview Connection:

Objectives:
1. To identify the problems faced by the Church during the 1300s and early 1400s
a. Philip IV sets the rule of kings above papal rule
b. The papacy’s move from Rome to Avignon, France, eventually leads to the Great Schism
c. Scholars who criticize the Church excesses are dealt with harshly
2. To describe the bubonic plague and its effects on Europe
a. The bubonic plague begins in Asia and sweeps across Europe, killing nearly ¼ of the
population
b. Every few years, the plague further reduces population and disrupts society
c. Lack of workers breaks down the manorial system
d. Many people become disillusioned with the Church, pessimistic about the future, or
preoccupied with pleasure
3. To describe the Hundred Years’ War and its impact
a. The Hundred Years’ War pits France against England in a struggle for land
b. The English longbow is used to defeat the French and spells the end of chivalrous warfare
c. Joan of Arc leads France to victory, but is captured and executed by the English
d. The Hundred Years’ War gives rise to nationalism, empowers the French king and the
English Parliament, and marks the end of the Middle Ages