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The Western Experience book cover
The Western Experience, 8/e
Mortimer Chambers, University of California - Los Angeles
Barbara Hanawalt, Ohio State University
Theodore Rabb, Princeton University
Isser Woloch, Columbia University
Raymond Grew, University of Michigan - Ann Arbor

The Empire and Christianity

Problems for Analysis



I. The Empire at Its Height



1

Analyze the way in which the socioeconomic system of the Empire functioned. What were its economic characteristics? What were the major social classes? How well did it function?

2

Historians argue that Romans were most skilled in law, engineering, and architecture. Using examples, support this argument.

II. The Period of Crisis



3

While in the short run slavery as an economic system worked well, in the long run it worked to the disadvantage of the Empire. Explain.

4

Analyze the crisis of the third century. How did social, economic, and political developments interact during the period?

III. The Late Roman Empire



5

What problems did the reforms of Diocletian and Constantine solve, and what new problems did they create?

6

Assess the different interpretations of the Roman Empire in the West. Which one, or which combination, seem most persuasive?

IV. Christianity and Its Early Rivals



7

Analyze the similarities and differences of Christianity and other mystery religions. What characteristics of Christianity contributed to its success?

8

How did women's role in Christianity change over time? What accounts for the change?

9

How did theological controversies contribute to establishing Christian dogma and order within the Church?