A History of Unbelief: Non-believers in the middle ages, Part 1

The video explores the nature of belief and unbelief in the Middle Ages, highlighting the absence of atheism as understood today. It discusses how some people held beliefs that diverged from official church teachings, including skepticism about the Eucharist and the soul's eternity. The video also examines stories of miracles and philosophical challenges to Christian doctrines, illustrating the complexity of faith during this period.

What was the general attitude towards atheism in the Middle Ages?

• Atheism was widely accepted.

• Atheism was a common intellectual movement.

• Atheism, as we understand it today, was unlikely.

• Atheism was encouraged by the church.

How did ordinary people in the Middle Ages often express their unbelief?

• By writing anti-religious texts.

• By forming atheist groups.

• Through quiet skepticism and non-adherence to all church teachings.

• By openly challenging the church.

What was a common struggle for believers regarding the Eucharist?

• Memorizing religious texts.

• Attending mass regularly.

• Believing in the transformation of bread into Christ's body.

• Understanding the language of the mass.

What was a common reaction to the Eucharist among skeptics?

• They wrote letters to the church.

• They often laughed or giggled during mass.

• They formed secret societies.

• They refused to attend mass.

What idea from Greek and Roman texts challenged medieval Christian beliefs?

• The soul is a physical entity.

• The soul might end with the body.

• The soul is unrelated to the body.

• The soul is eternal and destined for salvation.

How did some medieval individuals perceive the afterlife?

• As a journey to another world.

• As a myth created for control.

• As a guaranteed paradise.

• As a scientific phenomenon.

What did some people believe about the soul based on their observations?

• The soul is just breath and ceases with the body.

• The soul is eternal.

• The soul is a divine gift.

• The soul is visible at death.