Week 25 Review

1) What kinds of developments occurred during the renaissance of the twelfth century?
The renaissance of the twelfth century saw a powerful rebirth in a number of different areas, and helped to enlighten people regarding Roman literature.There was a figurative "waterfall'' of poetry and writing that took place throughout this time period, all composed in Latin. This ancient language would become universal and be adopted by every writer in their endeavors. It was easily understandable by the populace, and therefore was resorted to as an easy method of communication. There were a considerable amount of expansion in Greek philosophy and science as well. People could at long last appreciate these impressive works, as they were translated. Roman Law was brought into the spotlight, witnessing increased popularity after years of recession. Of course, there were naturally some negatives to this portion of the renaissance. The monarchs or rulers were quick to utilize the renewed engrossment, to their advantage. Roman law favored the primary control of the king. So this gave them the opportunity to exert more authority over their subjects, and dismiss the local system of feudalism. Another detrimental consequence of the renaissance was that writers relied too heavily on famous classics. Instead of doing their own research, they just lazily sourced Aristotle's work(for ex.) as a reference. Using ancient writer's ideas as a basis, they failed to do any original or unique work of their own. They regarded men like Galen, for instance as the only specialist in medical matters. This method of thinking was a path of ignorance, that left many men sorely lacking in real knowledge.



2) Discuss the origins and features of the university system in the High Middle Ages.
The university system of the middle ages was quite different from our modern-day one. It's rather unclear where it originated from, although some stemmed from Cathedral schools. Others started out as simply a group of students gathering together to study and discuss scholastic matters. There was a fixed program for study and a vivid distinction between undergraduate and graduate study. Undergraduates were typically those who finished 4 years of tutelage, while graduates mastered up to eight years. In order for a degree to be properly acclaimed, it had to be chartered by the pope or another powerful person(like the king). The recipient then had permission to lecture anywhere he desired in Europe. It was also the church's obligation to protect the universities and their students. The popes also assisted in paying the professor's salary and championing the university's liberty. 
Universities specialized in different areas of study, unlike the way in which they function today. The University of Paris was known for theology and Bologna was popular law.
Many people mistakenly think that the middle ages college system was excessively strict, not allowing students to express their personal beliefs. This was not the case however, as individuality was very much encouraged. Creative intellectual debates were a frequent event in university life. Students and faculty were regularly involved in scholastic discussions, where they could converse on many topics.

3)Write a brief overview of the life and work of Thomas Aquinas.
Thomas Aquinas, commonly known as Saint Thomas Aquinas, was born in Siccily, in 1225. He has been a renown Catholic priest and writer for centuries, respected by people of all religions. He was the greatest theologian in the Catholic church and also an eminent scholastic philosopher. Having been educated by Albert the Great, he was equipped with valuable skills to teach in Naples, Rome, and other famous cities. During his long, prosperous career as an author, he wrote some 8 1/2 million words! This is an impressive, astounding accomplishment, to say the very least. Some of the books he fashioned included the Summa Theologica, Summa Contra Gentiles and On Being and Essence. Thomas certainly didn't lead a very easy life, at the beginning of his pursuits. He earnestly wanted to join the Dominican Order, as a budding 19 year old man. His family were extremely displeased with him, and ashamed that their son was endeavoring this. They were so strongly opposed to his choice, that they detained him to prevent it! 
Their ill intentions were only used by Thomas for good. During the awful year he spent in jail, he mastered the entire Bible and the Sentences of Peter Lombard. 
Finally his family gave up in trying to stop him from his dream and he was discharged from his home. This was the time period in which he was sent off to study with Albert the Great. It is hard to believe, but this learned, clever man was actually mocked in the school. His fellow peers christened him "The dumb ox" and found him very comical. His teacher(Albert the Great) was quick to sternly reprove them for their jesting. He warned them that one day everyone would eagerly listen to Aquinas's "bellowing".  
Thomas is well-known for being an advocate of faith and reason. He was adamant in his belief that they were compatible, and not conflicting forces. His theory was that God was a God of faith and reason. He gave us the ability to use our brains for human reasoning, but also the heart to believe in him. Aquinas taught that there were three fundamental types of knowledge. First,there was the knowledge that was attained by reason, and second there was knowledge that could be earned by divine revelation.The third type of knowledge could be found by reason and divine revelation. 
Thomas Aquinas has been revered and cherished fondly, as one of the world's most affluent authors. He had an equal amount of respect for both reason and faith. Because of this, he was able to impact both the heathen and the believer with his teachings.