Please respond in an essay to one of the following questions. Use any and all resources available to fill out your thinking on the subject and turn it in on the last day of class. Thank you.   1.         Sherman introduced the Renaissance as a concept and movement centering around Burckhardt and "humanism." Define humanism in both its focused, technical meaning as well as its wider meanings, as related to values, reform, virtue, duty. How does Morris' view fit and/or oppose the more standard views like Sherman's presentation? Sketch and explain a few primary source-figures like Petrarch, Castiglione and Machiavelli to exemplify the Renaissance. Then, plug Christine and her Treasure into this discussion in order to show how she does and/or does not qualify as a true Renaissance Woman. Be sure to compare examples/evidence between Christine and these other, 'guaranteed-true', renaissance figures. Also be sure to show how Colin Morris' exploration of renaissance individualism fits into your argument.   2.     The Crusades mean many things to many people. Best way to sort it out: 'To The Texts!' What do the primary sources reveal about the nature of the First Crusade? (online and Sherman, ch.9)          The Just War Theory gives us a way to characterize, even defend, the Justness or lack of Justness in the First Crusade. After investigating the sources in Sherman and online, show both sides in this discussion (or "trial") of the First Crusaders. Which side -- Crusade as defensible or not defensible -- seems to have the most and/or best evidence in its favor? Explain in lavish and luxurious detail, please.

Final Hints