Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

Humanist scholars during the Renaissance aimed to reform society through education and a focus on classical texts, making this the correct answer. Humanism emphasized the study of ancient Greek and Roman literature, philosophy, and art, viewing these classical works as essential for understanding human nature and improving individual potential. Scholars believed that by educating people in these texts, they could promote civic responsibility, moral integrity, and a more enlightened society, thereby driving social reform. This focus on education was a significant shift from the medieval emphasis on religion alone and spawned a new appreciation for science, art, and scholarship. The movement also encouraged the questioning of established authority, leading to the rise of new ideas that ultimately contributed to the Reformation and the scientific advancements of the period. The other options do not align with the core goals of humanism. For instance, reinforcing the power of monarchies over the Church was not a unifying goal of humanists; rather, many advocated for a more personal relationship with spirituality that often conflicted with monarchical or ecclesiastical power. The idea of creating a unified Europe under a single religious doctrine contrasts sharply with the humanist emphasis on individual thought and critique, which often challenged established dogma. Finally, promoting isolationism and regionalism in political