A Renaissance Of Knowledge

(I had spent the first quarter of the year in AP Chemistry; but I dropped the second half of the course due my acceptance that I do not understand the subject even if I can balance equations and perform labs flawlessly. Instead, I am allowed to take the second half of European History; which I have always adored. On my first day…)

Teacher: “Okay, welcome back after fall break. We’re going to refresh some of the major points from the end of last semester before digging into new material. First question: How did St. Peter’s Basilica impact the Reformation?”

(No one raises their hand, so I do, rather shyly. My teacher points at me.)

Me: “The money used to build it came primarily from the sale of indulgences; where the Church claimed that by giving money, you could lessen the amount of time you or a loved one spent in Purgatory. Martin Luther felt that indulgences were a sign of corruption, and that the relationship with God should be personal.”

Teacher: “Exactly. Now, what were the primary differences between the Italian and English Renaissance?”

(Once again, no one moves to answer, so I raise my hand.)

Me: “The Italian Renaissance occurred in the 14-to-1500s, and is characterized by advancements in art. Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Rafael. The English occurred a century later, and imported much of the art, but advanced scientific knowledge, like Isaac Newton and the theory of gravity.”

Teacher: “Excellent. The Hundred Year’s War was ignited by…?”

Me: “The English claim to the French throne, which the French rejected, as they didn’t allow inheritance through the female line.”

Teacher: “Exactly.” *pause* “Were you here last quarter?”

Me: “No, I transferred in.”

Teacher: “How is it that the only person who knows the answers is the one who wasn’t here?!”