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  1. AP European History
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Contextualizing 16th and 17th-Century Challenges and Developments

Abigail Young

Abigail Young

6 min read

Next Topic - Luther and the Protestant Reformation

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Study Guide Overview

This study guide covers the pre-Reformation era in European History, focusing on key figures like Jan Hus and John Wycliffe, critiques of the Catholic Church (including indulgences, simony, and nepotism), economic developments (the Commercial Revolution and the printing press), and the rise of state power. It also highlights the intersection of politics and religion and provides practice questions covering these topics.

#AP European History: Pre-Reformation Review 🚀

Hey, future AP Euro superstar! Let's get you prepped for the exam with this supercharged review of the pre-Reformation era. We’ll make sure everything clicks so you can walk in confident and ready to ace it!

#⛪ Pre-Luther Reformers and Movements

The Catholic Church was THE power player in Europe for centuries. But, whispers of dissent started long before Martin Luther.

#Key Figures

  • Jan Hus and John Wycliffe: These guys were the OG critics of the Church. Think of them as the opening act for the Reformation's headliner. 🎤 *
Key Concept

Challenged the Church openly, criticizing its officials and policies as “unscriptural.”

* Believed the Bible should be in the *vernacular* (common language) so everyone could read it. *
Quick Fact

Wycliffe died naturally, but Hus was burned at the stake for his beliefs. 💀

#Why They Matter?

  • They were major influences on the Protestant Reformation. Their ideas laid the groundwork for Luther and others.
Memory Aid

Think of Wycliffe and Hus as the Warm-up Heaters for the Reformation!

#😠 Critiques of the Catholic Church

So, what was everyone so upset about? Here’s the tea:

#Indulgences 💸

  • These were documents sold by the Church promising to reduce time in purgatory.
Common Mistake

Don't forget: Indulgences were about reducing time in purgatory, not skipping it altogether.

* **Johann Tetzel’s** famous line: “As soon as the coin in coffer rings, the soul from purgatory springs.” 💰 * Money from indulgences was used to rebuild **St. Peter’s Basilica** in Rome.

#Other Issues

  • Simony: Buying and selling church offices. 💼 *...
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Previous Topic - Age of ReformationNext Topic - Luther and the Protestant Reformation

Question 1 of 11

What was a core belief shared by both John Wycliffe and Jan Hus? 🤔

The Pope should have absolute authority

The Bible should only be read by priests

The Bible should be available in the vernacular

The Church should not be involved in politics