The Final (Closed-Books, Open-Minds) Exam will consist of three questions, each from different sections. For the exam, you choose two of those three questions to respond to in essays.

1. Dante's political philosophy centered on a kind of "New World Order."  Explain what this statement means, i.e., describe the various concepts of the state which Dante disagreed with, and describe the kind of state that Dante seemed to favor by looking into various figures in the Paradise. Besides showing what Dante had in mind (and what he reacted against), do try to create a full picture of Dante's political philosophy, along with attendant examples and illustrations from the poem.
2. Dante's concept of human individualism is complex. Parts of the Paradiso seem to argue for an individual's elevated status, second only to God. Other parts seem to smother individualism under a blanket of all-powerful politics, pervasive ignorance, social compartmentalizing, religious dictates, moral propaganda etc. Describe the complexities of these relationships in Dante's idea of individualism. Does true individualism really emerge in the poem? Or is the individual at the mercy of the great forces in Dante's universe? While (of course) citing examples from the poem to build your case, you might also cite examples from outside the poem for purposes of a comparative argument.
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3. It has been argued that the status of medieval women had reached heights not before encountered in all of Western Civilization, and that Eleanor of Aquitaine was an example of this rise in status.  Explain what the preceding statement means, then agree and disagree with it in a Sic et Non fashion. Departing from Abelard, come to a conclusion on whether part or all of this statement stands or falls in terms of the evidence and arguments which you present.
4. Amy Kelly has been criticized for her use of evidence, and praised for bringing a difficult topic to readers in a 'real' and understandable way.  What problems occur in her book on Eleanor of Aquitaine (methodological and otherwise)? What solutions has she implemented to bring Eleanor and her times to the modern reader in a very successful publication? Does the end justify the means? Has Kelly betrayed the historical profession with her "Queen of Hearts" interpretation? Use clear arguments and specific pieces of evidence, however you respond to this question.
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5. Dante presented much of his past and present World View in terms of values (love, beauty, happiness), politics (order, justice), society (gender, hierarchies), intellectual assumptions (spirituality, education, individualism), etc. Choose a canto or two, or figure in the Paradiso, or recurring metaphor that will reveal the heart of Dante's "Vision of the Universe." With reference to your choice, describe the more significant aspects of the Medieval World View which will incorporate themes from Bede through Paradise. In other words, find a 'landmark in Paradise' and use it to navigate and explore the 'Medieval Mind.'
6. As Charles Homer Haskins, Amy Kelly and others have suggested, the Twelfth-Century Renaissance constituted an outstanding rise in culture. Describe the various areas in which the period from about 1070-1200 can lay claim to cultural efflorescence. Would you argue that this claim is valid (and sound), partly valid, mostly valid, mostly invalid, or completely wrong-headed. For example, are there significant strides forward made in the 12th century compared to the "Northumbrian Renaissance"? Did Dante stand in the 12th century tradition or make a decisive break forward? Or are none of these worthy of the title 'Renaissance'? Explain your position with luxurious detail, examples with explanations, and clear, insightful reasoning.