Advanced Placement (AP) European History Practice Exam

How did the development of vernacular literature impact European culture in the long term?

1. It reinforced the dominance of Latin as a language

2. It fostered distinct national cultures based on shared languages

3. It created a uniform European culture that suppressed local dialects

4. It led to unified religious literature across Europe

The correct answer is: It fostered distinct national cultures based on shared languages

The development of vernacular literature significantly nurtured distinct national cultures based on shared languages. As authors began to write in the languages spoken by the common people rather than in Latin, this allowed a broader audience to access literature, ideas, and culture. These literary works often drew on local traditions, folklore, and histories, which helped to cultivate a sense of national identity. The emergence of works in languages such as Italian, French, Spanish, and English played a vital role in uniting people around a common language, fostering a sense of community and shared cultural heritage. Over time, this contributed to the establishment of nations as distinct cultural entities, with their own unique literary traditions and values. This shift towards vernacular languages was crucial in shaping the cultural landscape of Europe, as it allowed for the expression of local identities and experiences.