Important Questions and Answers for Class 11 History Chapter 5 Changing Cultural Traditions 2025-26

1. Multiple choice questions.

1. Who among the following was a prominent painter of the Renaissance period in Italy?

• (a) Leonardo da Vinci
• (b) Michel Foucault
• (c) Ashoka
• (d) Homer

Answer: (a) Leonardo da Vinci.

2. Which city is considered the birthplace of the Renaissance?

• (a) Paris
• (b) Florence
• (c) Venice
• (d) Rome

Answer: (b) Florence.

3. Very Short Answer (VSA).

1. What does ‘Renaissance’ mean?

Answer: ‘Renaissance’ means ‘rebirth’. It refers to a period of revival in art, literature, and learning in Europe, particularly from the 14th to 17th centuries.

2. Who was Johannes Gutenberg?

Answer: Johannes Gutenberg was a German printer who invented the movable-type printing press, making books more accessible in Europe during the Renaissance.

3. Short Answer Questions.

1. State two main features of Humanism during the Renaissance period.

Answer: Humanism stressed the study of classical texts and emphasized the value and potential of individuals. It highlighted human dignity, rationality, and promoted critical inquiry against rigid traditions and superstitions.

2. Explain the contribution of the printing press to the spread of new ideas in Europe.

Answer: The printing press enabled faster production of books at lower costs. It spread knowledge to wider audiences, encouraged literacy, and facilitated the quick exchange of scientific and philosophical ideas across Europe during the Renaissance.

4. Long Answer Questions.

1. Discuss how Renaissance art reflected the changing cultural traditions of Europe.

Answer: Renaissance art showcased a renewed interest in nature, anatomy, and human emotions, moving beyond the religious focus of medieval times. Artists experimented with techniques like perspective and chiaroscuro, making paintings realistic. Patrons from wealthy classes supported artists, leading to masterpieces that blended scientific understanding with creativity.

1. Artists used perspective and realism.
2. Focus moved from only religious themes to varied subjects.
3. Wealthy patrons encouraged new techniques and subjects.

2. What role did universities and scholars play in shaping intellectual life during the Renaissance?

Answer: Universities expanded curricula to include literature, philosophy, and sciences alongside theology. Scholars engaged in debates, translated ancient works, and questioned established beliefs. This environment promoted critical thinking, helping Europe to gradually move towards scientific discoveries and a modern worldview.

1. Ancient Greek and Roman texts were rediscovered.
2. Scholarly debates promoted rational inquiry.
3. Universities provided platforms for new ideas.

6. Case-based questions.

Read the following passage and answer the questions that follow:

"During the Renaissance, cities like Florence became centers of art, learning, and culture. Wealthy merchant families, such as the Medicis, supported scholars and artists, leading to major achievements in painting, sculpture, and literature. The period saw increased curiosity about the world and a focus on human abilities."

(i) Name a wealthy family in Florence known for their patronage of the arts.

Answer: The Medici family.

(ii) What impact did patronage have on Renaissance artists?

Answer: Patronage enabled artists to experiment and create, leading to significant artistic achievements.

(iii) Mention one field, besides art, that flourished during the Renaissance as per the passage.

Answer: Learning (education/scholarship) flourished.

(iv) How did the period reflect curiosity and human abilities?

Answer: The Renaissance emphasized discovering new knowledge and appreciating human talents and creativity.

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