UNIT TWO: FEUDAL EUROPE
Essential question: What was life in Europe like during Feudal times and what events led to social changes which ended Feudalism? Focus Questions for this unit: Core Curriculum
Curriculum of Connections
Curriculum of Practice
Curriculum of Identity
Overview We cross the Atlantic to set the stage for the eventual European colonization of North America. We must understand the social, political, and economic forces which led to the mixing of continental cultures. To do so, we need to grasp how Europe evolved and identify the significant events which led to the eventual exploration and colonization of the North American continent. The Feudal system brought together a hodgepodge of political units to create a stable form of society. Generations of Europeans lived within this governmental framework. Why was it stable? What were the advantages and disadvantages of living under Feudalism? These are questions that must be answered. The glue that held society together was the rising involvement of the church in daily life. The dominance of religion dictated a prescribed set of beliefs about man's purpose. As a result, for hundreds of years, Europe remained a relatively stagnant society, devoid of great advancements in science and medicine. It also produced a single-mindedness in terms of thought . Breaking the chains of Feudalism opened to door to the Renaissance and eventually the paved the way toward exploration which brought together two continents. Time: approximately 2 weeks Individual lessons for this unit: (click to view lesson plans) Very Superstitious! Peasantry Sucks Marco....Marco... Readings The Crusades Life in Feudal Society The Story They Would Not Believe Primary Sources Feudal Oath of Fealty The Magna Carta (1215) Feudalism Primary Sources Excerpts from Marco Polo's Book Simulations Feudal M and M's Powerpoints Feudal Europe Videos (click to view) In the Footsteps of Marco Polo Extension Activities and Resources Reading: Reading: A Short Comparison between Chivalry and Bushido Reading: Opening New Doors: The Modern Woman’s Case for Preserving Chivalry Reading: Four Reason Why Women Should Celebrate the Death of Chivalry Reading: Fun in the Pool: The History of the Marco Polo Game Reading: Exploring the Truth: 10 Facts on the Real Marco Polo |
LESSONS
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