Medieval Period Improvements Quiz

Key Developments in Geographic Knowledge

• In 1414, a Latin translation of Ptolemy’s Geography was utilized, adopting a smaller estimate of the Earth's circumference.
• Portolano charts became essential for sea captains, detailing harbors and trade routes.
• The astrolabe, improved from its invention by Hipparchus, became commonly used for navigation, allowing for precise altitude fixing of the polestar.
• Map-makers primarily served merchants and sailors, with some differences of opinion about lands beyond the equator.
• The Catalan Map of the World was notable for accurately outlining Ceylon and the Indian peninsula.

Arab Contributions to Geography

• Arabs showed early interest in geography, fueled by the diverse conditions of their surroundings, depicting their universe based on faith.
• They viewed Earth as the center of the universe, surrounded by seven planets.
• Major contributions emerged in mathematical, physical, and regional geography, including climatology, oceanography, and geomorphology.
• Factors stimulating Muslim interest in geography included:
  • The vast Arabic Empire spanning from the Atlantic to China.
  • A well-constructed road system inherited from Roman infrastructure.
  • Trade routes that facilitated movement and religious pilgrimages, particularly to Mecca.
  • Cultural interactions stemming from conquests, notably with Greek and Indian knowledge.

Advancements in Mapping Techniques

• Mapping skills evolved into the creation of world maps, known as Mappa Mundi, featuring contributions from figures like Pslater, Marino, and Fra Moura.

Al-Biruni's Contributions

• Al-Biruni was a polymath, excelling in fields such as astronomy, mathematics, physics, and history, with a keen interest in geography.
• He conducted studies on cartography, geodesy, and surveying, focusing on the concept of time and calendar differences among nations.
• His research included the moon's orbit, lunar phases, and the effects of tides.
• Al-Biruni analyzed fossils and conducted a detailed study of India's seasons, particularly the monsoon climate.
• He provided the first accurate description of the Indus River and its flooding phenomena.

Al-Idrisi's Explorations and Works

• Al-Idrisi emphasized experience through travel, covering regions in Spain, France, Sicily, and various locations in Africa and Asia Minor.
• His significant contribution involved documenting medicinal plants, particularly in his book Kitab-Al-Jamili-Sifat-Ashtata al Nabatat.
• He introduced many new drug plants and provided translations for these in six languages, including Greek, Hindi, and Latin.

Legacy of Al-Idrisi

• His world map was pioneering as it plotted geographical features based on thorough textual research.
• Al-Idrisi's work enriched geographic understanding, reflecting economic, physical, and cultural elements.

Explore the notable improvements in the Christian world during the late medieval period. This quiz covers key historical figures and events that shaped the era. Test your knowledge and understanding of the transformations that took place in the medieval times.