The Dark Ages (The History Channel): How did 9 waves (and hundreds of years) of European crusaders end up changing the course of European society forever? For better or worse, these changes radically altered the course of events and helped to usher in the Renaissance period at a much faster pace. This short video gives you that background and helps paint a picture of where those crusaders came from.
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B. Lecture:
PowerPoint: The Crusades began in 1096AD, but together all 9 lasted for roughly 200 years. Although those years were not consecutive, they ultimately showed medieval Europeans that the world was larger than they had ever dreamed.
Check out this interactive map website; it includes invasion waves, battle areas, castle pictures and names, provinces, and background information for the Crusades.
As you read, think about the following: According to Alexius, what terrible things are going on against the Christians? Based on the letter, why do you think he is writing this to Count Robert? What would you suppose was Count Robert's reply? _____________________________________________________________________
What do you think people's reactions were to his statements? ______________________________________________________________________ 3. Medieval Sourcebook: Pope Innocent III: Summons to a Crusade
What do you think of Pope Innocent's decree to potential crusaders? What types of rules does he place on their actions? What, if anything, do you think was omitted?
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D. What Do You Think?
There are many controversial historical events that spark heated discussions--the Crusades are surely no different. Think they're just old news? Think again! The debate over who was truly the "agressor" of war, what was the true purpose of the Crusades, and whether or not crimes were committed by crusaders has many theologians, historians, and academics up in arms. As is so often said, the truth is probably somewhere in between. But many people have very concise opinions about the matter.
Consider the following two video clips, along with what we've covered so far, about the Crusades. Then, answer the class poll to let us know what you think. Your answers will be anonymous, but the total results will be posted next week.
Video 1: ______________________________________________________________
Crusades (BBC)
Video 2: _______________________________________________________________
The Crusades (Real CTV)
Class Poll: _______________________________________________________________