Gothic Architecture • The Gothic style of architecture first appeared in the twelfth century. • Gothic cathedrals are considered artistic and architectural triumphs. • Architects used technical innovations in the construction of Gothic churches. o The combination of ribbed vaults and pointed arches allowed for greater building height. o Flying buttresses distributed the weight of the ceiling outward and down, allowing for the insertion of stained glass windows.

Gothic Architecture • Spiritual impressions o High ceilings created a sense of upward movement toward God. o Varying amounts of natural light entered the church, depending on the time of day. o Stained glass windows depicted religious scenes and daily life.

click for answer Joan of Arc The teenage peasant girl who claimed to hear the voices of saints became one of France’s greatest heroines. Joan of Arc acted valiantly in leading France into battle against the English in the Hundred Years’ War. She was ultimately captured, tried as a witch, and burned at the stake at the age of 19. But her bravery helped France to win the long war. Why might French soldiers have been willing to let a teenage girl lead them into battle? Possible answer: Joan claimed to have heard the voices of saints, so the soldiers might have believed that God would grant them victory if they listened to her. click for answer

The Hundred Years’ War • The Hundred Years’ War involved France and England. • The war started in 1337 when the French King, Philip VI, seized the duchy of Gascony from England. • The war changed the nature of military battles: peasant foot soldiers proved to be a more important fighting force than knights because of their greater numbers. • English armies had more effective weapons early in the war and won important victories at Crécy and Agincourt. • A young French peasant Joan of Arc inspired King Charles and the struggling French army at a critical time. • The French gained an advantage with superior cannons, and they won final victory in 1453.

The Hundred Years’ War • The Hundred Years’ War involved France and England. • The war started in 1337 when the French King, Philip VI, seized the duchy of Gascony from England. • The war changed the nature of military battles: peasant foot soldiers proved to be a more important fighting force than knights because of their greater numbers. • English armies had more effective weapons early in the war and won important victories at Crécy and Agincourt. • A young French peasant Joan of Arc inspired King Charles and the struggling French army at a critical time. • The French gained an advantage with superior cannons, and they won final victory in 1453.