Articles from the 1911 Encyclopedia beginning with the letter A
Entries from the 1911 Encyclopedia beginning with the letter A.
Abbadides - Muslim Dynasty of Spain
The Abbadides were a Mahommedan dynasty which arose in Spain on the downfall of the western caliphate.
The Abbadides were a Mahommedan dynasty which arose in Spain on the downfall of the western caliphate.
Abbasids - Caliphs of Bagdad
The Abbasids, a dynasty of caliphs in Bagdad, were the second of the two great dynasties of the Mahommedan empire.
The Abbasids, a dynasty of caliphs in Bagdad, were the second of the two great dynasties of the Mahommedan empire.
Abbess - Superior of a Convent
The Abbess was the elected Superior of a Convent or community of nuns, solemnly admitted to her office by episcopal benediction.
The Abbess was the elected Superior of a Convent or community of nuns, solemnly admitted to her office by episcopal benediction.
Abbey - A Monastery or Conventual Establishment
An extensive multi-page article about the organization and architectural features of the Abbey. Use this index to jump to individual abbeys discussed in this article.
An extensive multi-page article about the organization and architectural features of the Abbey. Use this index to jump to individual abbeys discussed in this article.
Abbot - Superior of an Abbey or Monastery
An article about the Abbot, the head and chief governor of a community of monks, from the 1911 edition of a renowned encyclopedia.
An article about the Abbot, the head and chief governor of a community of monks, from the 1911 edition of a renowned encyclopedia.
Abbreviators - Writers in the Papal Chancery
Abbreviators were writers in the papal chancery who sketched out and prepared the pope's bulls, briefs and consistorial decrees.
Abbreviators were writers in the papal chancery who sketched out and prepared the pope's bulls, briefs and consistorial decrees.
Peter Abelard - Scholastic Philosopher
Peter Abelard was a scholastic philosopher and brilliant teacher whose relationship with his student Heloise turned tragic.
Peter Abelard was a scholastic philosopher and brilliant teacher whose relationship with his student Heloise turned tragic.
Abencerrages
The Abencerrages were a family or faction that is said to have held a prominent position in the Moorish kingdom of Granada in the 15th century.
The Abencerrages were a family or faction that is said to have held a prominent position in the Moorish kingdom of Granada in the 15th century.
Abu-Bekr
The early accession of Abu-Bekr to Islamism was a fact of great importance.
The early accession of Abu-Bekr to Islamism was a fact of great importance.
Accolade
The Accolade was a ceremony anciently used in conferring knighthood.
The Accolade was a ceremony anciently used in conferring knighthood.
Acre
Acre's commanding position once meant it afforded the easiest entrance to the interior of Palestine.
Acre's commanding position once meant it afforded the easiest entrance to the interior of Palestine.
Adelard
Adelard made a special study of Arabian philosophy during his travels, and, on his return to England, brought his knowledge to bear on the current scholasticism of the time.
Adelard made a special study of Arabian philosophy during his travels, and, on his return to England, brought his knowledge to bear on the current scholasticism of the time.
Africa - History
If ancient Egypt and Ethiopia be excluded, the story of Africa is largely a record of the doings of its Asiatic and European conquerors and colonizers, Abyssinia being the only state which throughout historic times has maintained its independence.
If ancient Egypt and Ethiopia be excluded, the story of Africa is largely a record of the doings of its Asiatic and European conquerors and colonizers, Abyssinia being the only state which throughout historic times has maintained its independence.
Agincourt - Site of a Famous Military Victory
Agincourt is a village of northern France, the site of a famous victory, on the 25th of October 1415, of Henry V. of England over the French.
Agincourt is a village of northern France, the site of a famous victory, on the 25th of October 1415, of Henry V. of England over the French.
Agistment - A Legal Term Concerning Pasturage
To agist is, in law, to take cattle to graze, for a renumeration.
To agist is, in law, to take cattle to graze, for a renumeration.
History of English Agriculture
The combined or common-field system of husbandry practised by the village community or township may be taken as the starting-point of English agriculture.
The combined or common-field system of husbandry practised by the village community or township may be taken as the starting-point of English agriculture.
Aids - a Term of Medieval Finance
Aids were part of the service due to a lord from his men, and appear to have been based upon the principle that they ought to assist him in special emergency or need.
Aids were part of the service due to a lord from his men, and appear to have been based upon the principle that they ought to assist him in special emergency or need.
Pierre d'Ailly - French Theologian
Pierre d'Ailly played an important role in attempting to heal the schism that arose in the Church at the end of the Avignon Papacy.
Pierre d'Ailly played an important role in attempting to heal the schism that arose in the Church at the end of the Avignon Papacy.
Aisle - An Architectural Term
Though the term Aisle primarily means the wing of a house, it is generally applied in architecture to the lateral divisions of a church or large building.
Though the term Aisle primarily means the wing of a house, it is generally applied in architecture to the lateral divisions of a church or large building.
Aimoin - Monk - Writer - Historian
The chief work of French chronicler Aimoin was a history of the Franks that was much in vogue during the middle ages.
The chief work of French chronicler Aimoin was a history of the Franks that was much in vogue during the middle ages.
Aix-la-Chapelle - Aachen - German City
Aachen, or Aix-la-Chapelle, was the site of Charlemagne's favorite palace.
Aachen, or Aix-la-Chapelle, was the site of Charlemagne's favorite palace.
Isaac Al-Phasi - Jewish Rabbi and Codifier
Rabbi Isaac Al-Phasi condensed the Talmud with a special view to practical law.
Rabbi Isaac Al-Phasi condensed the Talmud with a special view to practical law.
Alain de Lille - Theologian - Poet - Doctor Universalis
Alain de Lille was a French theologian and mystic whose numerous poems and varied knowledge caused him to be called Doctor universalis.
Alain de Lille was a French theologian and mystic whose numerous poems and varied knowledge caused him to be called Doctor universalis.
Luigi Alamanni – Italian Renaissance Poet and Statesman
Luigi Alamanni was a prolific poet who was involved in political affairs in Florence and served as an ambassador for France.
Luigi Alamanni was a prolific poet who was involved in political affairs in Florence and served as an ambassador for France.
Alani - Division of the Sarmatians
The Alani were the easternmost division of the Sarmatians, Iranian nomads with some Altaic admixture.
The Alani were the easternmost division of the Sarmatians, Iranian nomads with some Altaic admixture.
Alaric - Gothic Conqueror - King of the Visigoths
Alaric, King of the Visigoths, was the first Teutonic leader who stood as a conqueror in the city of Rome.
Alaric, King of the Visigoths, was the first Teutonic leader who stood as a conqueror in the city of Rome.
Alaric II - King of the Goths in Spain
Alaric II was the eighth king of the Goths in Spain, succeeding his to the throne in 485.
Alaric II was the eighth king of the Goths in Spain, succeeding his to the throne in 485.
Albania - Medieval History - Period of Native Rule
After the division of the Roman empire, the lands inhabited by the Albanian race became provinces of the Byzantine empire
After the division of the Roman empire, the lands inhabited by the Albanian race became provinces of the Byzantine empire
The Dukes of Albany
The territorial designation of Albany was formerly given to those parts of Scotland to the north of the firths of Clyde and Forth. The title of duke of Albany was first bestowed in 1398 by King Robert III on his brother, Robert Stewart, earl of Fife.
The territorial designation of Albany was formerly given to those parts of Scotland to the north of the firths of Clyde and Forth. The title of duke of Albany was first bestowed in 1398 by King Robert III on his brother, Robert Stewart, earl of Fife.
Albategnius - Arab Prince and Astronomer
Albategnius compiled new tables of the sun and moon and discovered the movement of the sun's apogee.
Albategnius compiled new tables of the sun and moon and discovered the movement of the sun's apogee.
Albert I - German King - Duke of Austria
Albert I, German King and Duke of Austria, was the founder of the greatness of the house of Habsburg.
Albert I, German King and Duke of Austria, was the founder of the greatness of the house of Habsburg.
Albert I - Margrave of Brandenberg - The Bear
Albert I, surnamed The Bear, was the founder of the margraviate of Brandenburg.
Albert I, surnamed The Bear, was the founder of the margraviate of Brandenburg.
Albert II - King of Bohemia and Hungary
Albert was an energetic and warlike prince, whose short reign gave great promise of usefulness for Germany.
Albert was an energetic and warlike prince, whose short reign gave great promise of usefulness for Germany.
Albert III - Duke of Saxony
Albert III, Duke of Saxony, younger son of Frederick II, was surnamed the Courageous.
Albert III, Duke of Saxony, younger son of Frederick II, was surnamed the Courageous.
Albert III - Elector of Brandenberg
Albert III, Elector of Brandenberg, was one of the most prominent princes of the 15th century.
Albert III, Elector of Brandenberg, was one of the most prominent princes of the 15th century.
Albert of Aix - Historian of the First Crusade
Albert of Aix was the author of a history of the First Crusade that was widely known in the Middle Ages.
Albert of Aix was the author of a history of the First Crusade that was widely known in the Middle Ages.
Albert the Degenerate - Landgrave of Thuringia
Albert married Margaret, but was infatuated with Kunigunde.
Albert married Margaret, but was infatuated with Kunigunde.
Albert of Mainz - Elector and Archbishop
Archbishop Albert of Mainz was deeply involved in events of the Reformation.
Archbishop Albert of Mainz was deeply involved in events of the Reformation.
Albert - Grand Master of the Teutonic Order
Albert rejected the order of Teutonic Knights and converted to Protestantism.
Albert rejected the order of Teutonic Knights and converted to Protestantism.
Albertus Magnus
Albertus Magnus was the most widely read and most learned man of his time.
Albertus Magnus was the most widely read and most learned man of his time.
Erasmus Alberus
Erasmus Alberus was one of Luther's most active helpers in the Reformation.
Erasmus Alberus was one of Luther's most active helpers in the Reformation.
Albigenses
The Albigenses were Catharist heretics of the south of France
The Albigenses were Catharist heretics of the south of France
Albion - Ancient Name of the British Isles
The name Albion was taken by medieval writers from Pliny and Ptolemy.
The name Albion was taken by medieval writers from Pliny and Ptolemy.
Gil Alvarez de Albornoz - Spanish Cardinal - Papal Legate
Gil Alvarez de Albornoz was a cleric, a politician and a soldier.
Gil Alvarez de Albornoz was a cleric, a politician and a soldier.
Albret - Powerful Feudal Family of France
The Albrets distinguished themselves in the local wars of the Middle Ages.
The Albrets distinguished themselves in the local wars of the Middle Ages.
Alchemy - The Chemistry of the Middle Ages
In the narrow sense of the word, alchemy is the pretended art of making gold and silver, but in its wider and truer significance it stands for the chemistry of the middle ages.
In the narrow sense of the word, alchemy is the pretended art of making gold and silver, but in its wider and truer significance it stands for the chemistry of the middle ages.
Andrea Alciati - Italian Jurist
Andrea Alciati was a prolific author of legal works.
Andrea Alciati was a prolific author of legal works.
Pietro Alcionio - Petrus Alcyonius - Italian Classical Scholar
Pietro Alcionio - Petrus Alcyonius - Italian Classical Scholar
Pietro Alcionio - Petrus Alcyonius - Italian Classical Scholar
John Alcock - English Divine
Alcock was one of the most eminent pre-Reformation divines; he was a man of deep learning and also of great proficiency as an architect.
Alcock was one of the most eminent pre-Reformation divines; he was a man of deep learning and also of great proficiency as an architect.
Alcuin - Celebrated Ecclesiastic
Alcuin was a celebrated ecclesiastic and man of learning in the 8th century.
Alcuin was a celebrated ecclesiastic and man of learning in the 8th century.
Aldhelm - Bishop of Sherbourne - English Scholar
Aldhelm was a famous scholar in 7th century England.
Aldhelm was a famous scholar in 7th century England.
Aldred - English Ecclesiastic
Aldred had considerable influence over King Edward the Confessor, and took a prominent part in affairs of state.
Aldred had considerable influence over King Edward the Confessor, and took a prominent part in affairs of state.
Ale - Fermented Liquor - Parish Festival
The term Ale referred not only to a fermented drink. It also was synonymous with a parish festival or merry-making at which ale was the chief drink.
The term Ale referred not only to a fermented drink. It also was synonymous with a parish festival or merry-making at which ale was the chief drink.
Ale-Conner - Manorial Officer
The Ale-Conner was an officer at the court-leet of ancient English manors.
The Ale-Conner was an officer at the court-leet of ancient English manors.
Girolamo Aleandro - Italian Cardinal
Aleandro was librarian at the Vatican and headed the opposition to Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms.
Aleandro was librarian at the Vatican and headed the opposition to Martin Luther at the Diet of Worms.
Louis Aleman - French Cardinal
Aleman was a prominent member of the council of Basel, and, together with Cardinal Julian, led the party which maintained the supremacy of general councils over the pope's authority
Aleman was a prominent member of the council of Basel, and, together with Cardinal Julian, led the party which maintained the supremacy of general councils over the pope's authority
The Counts and Dukes of Alençon
The first line of the counts of Alençon was founded by Yves, lord of Bellesme, who in the middle of the 10th century possessed and fortified the town of Alençon.
The first line of the counts of Alençon was founded by Yves, lord of Bellesme, who in the middle of the 10th century possessed and fortified the town of Alençon.
Alexander Ales - Scottish Divine - Alesius
Alexander Ales, or Alesius, played an important role in the Reformation in Scotland.
Alexander Ales, or Alesius, played an important role in the Reformation in Scotland.
Alexander I - King of Scotland
Alexander I was King of Scotland from 1107 to 1124.
Alexander I was King of Scotland from 1107 to 1124.
Alexander II - King of Scotland
Alexander II was King of Scotland from 1214 to 1249.
Alexander II was King of Scotland from 1214 to 1249.
Pope Alexander II
Alexander II was pope from 1061 to 1073.
Alexander II was pope from 1061 to 1073.
Alexander III - King of Scotland
Alexander III reigned from 1249 to 1285.
Alexander III reigned from 1249 to 1285.
Pope Alexander III
Alexander III was pope from 1159 to 1181.
Alexander III was pope from 1159 to 1181.
Pope Alexander IV
Alexander IV was pope from 1254 to 1261.
Alexander IV was pope from 1254 to 1261.
Pope Alexander V
Pope Alexander V was a Franciscan friar before his brief pontificate in 1409.
Pope Alexander V was a Franciscan friar before his brief pontificate in 1409.
Pope Alexander VI
Pope Alexander VI - Rodrigo Borgia - is the most famously corrupt pope in history.
Pope Alexander VI - Rodrigo Borgia - is the most famously corrupt pope in history.
Alexander of Hales - Doctor Irrefragabilis - English Theologian
Alexander of Hales was a monastic, teacher, and theologian who wrote a system of instruction for all the schools in Christendom.
Alexander of Hales was a monastic, teacher, and theologian who wrote a system of instruction for all the schools in Christendom.
Alexander Nevsky - Grand-Duke of Vladimir
Alexander Nevsky defeated the Swedes at the Battle of the Neva and drove the Teutonic Knights from Russia.
Alexander Nevsky defeated the Swedes at the Battle of the Neva and drove the Teutonic Knights from Russia.
Alexander - King of Poland
Alexander was elected grand-duke of Lithuania on the death of his father in 1492, and king of Poland on the death of his brother John Albert in 1501.
Alexander was elected grand-duke of Lithuania on the death of his father in 1492, and king of Poland on the death of his brother John Albert in 1501.
History of Alexandria - Ancient and Medieval Period
Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was a Greek center in Egypt. In the early Middle Ages, Alexandria was a center of Arian heresy and underwent invasions by Arabs.
Founded by Alexander the Great, Alexandria was a Greek center in Egypt. In the early Middle Ages, Alexandria was a center of Arian heresy and underwent invasions by Arabs.
Alexandrine Verse - Leading Measure in French Poetry
Alexandrine verse is the heroic French verse, used in epic narrative, in tragedy and in the higher comedy. The origins of Alexandrine verse are uncertain, but the term may have derived from 12th-century romances in which Alexander of Macedon was the hero.
Alexandrine verse is the heroic French verse, used in epic narrative, in tragedy and in the higher comedy. The origins of Alexandrine verse are uncertain, but the term may have derived from 12th-century romances in which Alexander of Macedon was the hero.
Alexandrists - Renaissance Philosophers
The Alexandrists were philosophers of the Renaissance who denied the possibillty of immortality. The name Alexandrists was derived from Alexander of Aphrodisias.
The Alexandrists were philosophers of the Renaissance who denied the possibillty of immortality. The name Alexandrists was derived from Alexander of Aphrodisias.
Eastern Roman Emperor Alexius I - Alexius Comnenus
Emperor Alexius Comnenus raised the Empire from a condition of anarchy and decay at a time when it was threatened on all sides by new dangers.
Emperor Alexius Comnenus raised the Empire from a condition of anarchy and decay at a time when it was threatened on all sides by new dangers.
Emperor Alexius II
During his short reign Alexius was a puppet of Andronicus Comnenus.
During his short reign Alexius was a puppet of Andronicus Comnenus.
Emperor Alexius III
Emperor Alexius III consummated the financial ruin of the state and sank into debauchery.
Emperor Alexius III consummated the financial ruin of the state and sank into debauchery.
Emperor Alexius V
Emperor Alexius V's short reign occurred during the Latins' seige of Constantinople.
Emperor Alexius V's short reign occurred during the Latins' seige of Constantinople.
Alfred the Great - King of England
Alfred of Wessex is the only English king to earn the title Great.
Alfred of Wessex is the only English king to earn the title Great.
The History of Algebra
The first mention of the word algebra is to be found in the title of a work by Mahommed ben Musa al-Khwarizmi, who flourished about the beginning of the 9th century.
The first mention of the word algebra is to be found in the title of a work by Mahommed ben Musa al-Khwarizmi, who flourished about the beginning of the 9th century.
Alger of Liege - Priest - Historian - Scholar
Alger of Liege was a learned French priest who lived in the first half of the 12th century.
Alger of Liege was a learned French priest who lived in the first half of the 12th century.
The Alhambra - Fabulous Moorish Fortress in Spain
The Alhambra is an ancient palace and fortress of the Moorish monarchs of Granada, in southern Spain, occupying a hilly terrace on the south-eastern border of the city of Granada.
The Alhambra is an ancient palace and fortress of the Moorish monarchs of Granada, in southern Spain, occupying a hilly terrace on the south-eastern border of the city of Granada.
Alhazen - Abu Ali al-Hasan ibn Alhasan - Mathematician
Alhazen was an Arabian mathematician of the 11th century.
Alhazen was an Arabian mathematician of the 11th century.
Ali - Successor of Muhammad - Ali Ben Abu Talib
Ali, fourth of the caliphs or successors of Mahomet, was adopted by Mahomet and educated under his care.
Ali, fourth of the caliphs or successors of Mahomet, was adopted by Mahomet and educated under his care.
John Allen - English Divine
John Allen studied at both Oxford and Cambridge, served in various ecclesiastical and secular positions, in England and Ireland, and met a violent death.
John Allen studied at both Oxford and Cambridge, served in various ecclesiastical and secular positions, in England and Ireland, and met a violent death.
Thomas Allen - English Mathematician
Thomas Allen was famous for his knowledge of antiquity, philosophy and mathematics.
Thomas Allen was famous for his knowledge of antiquity, philosophy and mathematics.
William Allen - English Cardinal
William Allen was an English Catholic who tried to encourage Catholics to keep a low profile in England, but ended up embroiled in a plot against Queen Elizabeth.
William Allen was an English Catholic who tried to encourage Catholics to keep a low profile in England, but ended up embroiled in a plot against Queen Elizabeth.
Edward Alleyn - English Actor
Edward Alleyn was a notable English Actor who founded Dulwich College.
Edward Alleyn was a notable English Actor who founded Dulwich College.
Almanac
An almanac is a book or table containing a calendar of the days, weeks and months of the year, a register of ecclesiastical festivals and saints' days, and a record of various astronomical phenomena.
An almanac is a book or table containing a calendar of the days, weeks and months of the year, a register of ecclesiastical festivals and saints' days, and a record of various astronomical phenomena.
Dom Francisco de Almeida
Dom Francisco de Almeida was the first viceroy of Portuguese India.
Dom Francisco de Almeida was the first viceroy of Portuguese India.
Almogavares - Spanish Soldiers
The Almogavares were a class of Spanish soldiers, well known during the Christian reconquest of Spain, and much employed as mercenaries in Italy and the Levant, during the 13th and 14th centuries.
The Almogavares were a class of Spanish soldiers, well known during the Christian reconquest of Spain, and much employed as mercenaries in Italy and the Levant, during the 13th and 14th centuries.
Almohades - Founders of the Fifth Moorish Dynasty
The Almohades founded the fifth Moorish dynasty and conquered all northern Africa as far as Egypt, together with Moslem Spain.
The Almohades founded the fifth Moorish dynasty and conquered all northern Africa as far as Egypt, together with Moslem Spain.
Almonry
The chamber where alms were distributed to the poor.
The chamber where alms were distributed to the poor.
Almoravides - Founders of the Fourth Dynasty in Morocco
The Almoravides were a Berber horde from the Sahara which, in the 11th century, founded the fourth dynasty in Morocco.
The Almoravides were a Berber horde from the Sahara which, in the 11th century, founded the fourth dynasty in Morocco.
Alms - The Giving of Relief
The term Alms refers to the giving of relief and has its origins in Old English.
The term Alms refers to the giving of relief and has its origins in Old English.
Almshouse
An Almshouse was a house built and endowed by private charity for the residence of poor and usually aged people.
An Almshouse was a house built and endowed by private charity for the residence of poor and usually aged people.
Almuce - A Hooded Cape
The Almuce was a hooded cape of fur, or fur-lined, worn as a choir vestment by certain dignitaries of the Western Church.
The Almuce was a hooded cape of fur, or fur-lined, worn as a choir vestment by certain dignitaries of the Western Church.
Alp Arslan - Second Sultan of the Seljuk Dynasty
Alp Arslan signifies Valiant Lion, a name Mohammed ben da'Ud obtained through his military prowess.
Alp Arslan signifies Valiant Lion, a name Mohammed ben da'Ud obtained through his military prowess.
St. Alphege - Archbishop of Canterbury - Aelfhea
Alphege, or Aelfhea, came of a noble family, but in early life gave up everything for religion.
Alphege, or Aelfhea, came of a noble family, but in early life gave up everything for religion.
Alphonse I - Count of Toulouse - Alphonse Jourdain
Alphonse I, also known as Jourdain, controlled the regions between the Pyrenees and the Alps, Auvergne and the sea. His ascendancy was an unmixed good to the country, for during a period of fourteen years art and industry flourished.
Alphonse I, also known as Jourdain, controlled the regions between the Pyrenees and the Alps, Auvergne and the sea. His ascendancy was an unmixed good to the country, for during a period of fourteen years art and industry flourished.
Alphonse - Count of Toulouse and Poitiers
Alphonse was the brother of St. Louis, and served as joint regent with Charles of Anjou until his brother's return from Crusade.
Alphonse was the brother of St. Louis, and served as joint regent with Charles of Anjou until his brother's return from Crusade.
Alphonso - Common English Spelling of Alfonso - Name of Portuguese Kings
Alphonso is the common English spelling of Alfonso, Alonso and Alfonso, which are respectively the Galician, the Leonese and the Castilian forms of Ildefonso, the name of a saint and archbishop of Toledo in the 7th century.
Alphonso is the common English spelling of Alfonso, Alonso and Alfonso, which are respectively the Galician, the Leonese and the Castilian forms of Ildefonso, the name of a saint and archbishop of Toledo in the 7th century.
Alphonso - Kings of Spain
Alphonso is the name of several kings of Spain.
Alphonso is the name of several kings of Spain.
Alphonsus a Sancta Maria - Spanish Historian
Alphonsus a Sancta Maria, or Alphonso de Cartagena, was bishop of Burgos and author of a history of Spain.
Alphonsus a Sancta Maria, or Alphonso de Cartagena, was bishop of Burgos and author of a history of Spain.
Prospero Alpini - Physician and Botanist
Prospero Alpini was an Italian physician and botanist who seems to have deduced the doctrine of the sexual difference of plants.
Prospero Alpini was an Italian physician and botanist who seems to have deduced the doctrine of the sexual difference of plants.
History of the Inhabitants of the Alps
The history of the Alps includes the formation of the Swiss Confederation.
The history of the Alps includes the formation of the Swiss Confederation.
Alsace - Long-Disputed European Region
From a very early period Alsace has been a disputed territory, and has suffered in the contentions of rival races.
From a very early period Alsace has been a disputed territory, and has suffered in the contentions of rival races.
Altars in the Christian Church
The earliest Christians had no altars, but with the cessation of persecution, wood and stone were used.
The earliest Christians had no altars, but with the cessation of persecution, wood and stone were used.
Albrecht Altdorfer - German Painter and Engraver
Albrecht Altdorfer was a painter, engraver, and city architect.
Albrecht Altdorfer was a painter, engraver, and city architect.
Alure - Architectural Term
An alure is a walkway.
An alure is a walkway.
Pedro de Alvarado - Explorer - Conquistador
Pedro de Alvarado was one of the Spanish leaders in the discovery and conquest of America
Pedro de Alvarado was one of the Spanish leaders in the discovery and conquest of America
Amadis de Gaula - Prose Romance of Chivalry
Amadis de Gaula is a famous romance that may have been written in Portugal.
Amadis de Gaula is a famous romance that may have been written in Portugal.
Francisco Alvarez - Portuguese Missionary and Explorer
Francisco Alvarez went to Abyssinia and published a much-translated account of his travels.
Francisco Alvarez went to Abyssinia and published a much-translated account of his travels.
Amalaric - King of the Visigoths
Amalaric was king of the Visigoths and the son of Alaric II.
Amalaric was king of the Visigoths and the son of Alaric II.
Amalasuntha - Queen of the Ostrogoths - Amalasuentha
Amalasuntha was the daughter of Theodoric the Great and became queen of the Ostrogoths for a time.
Amalasuntha was the daughter of Theodoric the Great and became queen of the Ostrogoths for a time.
Amalric I and Amalric II - Kings of Jerusalem
Amalric is the name of two kings of Jerusalem.
Amalric is the name of two kings of Jerusalem.
Amalric of Bena - French Theologian - Amaury de Bena
Amalric of Bena taught philosophy and theology at the University of Paris before his works were condemned by the Church.
Amalric of Bena taught philosophy and theology at the University of Paris before his works were condemned by the Church.
Amboise
Amboise owes its celebrity to the imposing chateau which overlooks the Loire from the rocky eminence above the town.
Amboise owes its celebrity to the imposing chateau which overlooks the Loire from the rocky eminence above the town.
Georges d'Amboise - French Cardinal - Minister of State
Georges d'Amboise was cardinal and minister of state to King Louis XII of France.
Georges d'Amboise was cardinal and minister of state to King Louis XII of France.
Saint Ambrose - Bishop of Milan
Saint Ambrose was one of the most eminent fathers of the church in the 4th century.
Saint Ambrose was one of the most eminent fathers of the church in the 4th century.
Autpert Ambrose - French Benedictine Monk
Autpert Ambrose became abbe of St Vincent on the Volturno in the time of Desiderius, king of the Lombards.
Autpert Ambrose became abbe of St Vincent on the Volturno in the time of Desiderius, king of the Lombards.
Ambrose the Camaldulian - French Ecclesiastic Ambrogio Traversari
Ambrose the Camaldulian was a leading theologian and Hellenist.
Ambrose the Camaldulian was a leading theologian and Hellenist.
Ambrosians - Religious Brotherhood
Ambrosians is the name given to several religious brotherhoods which at various times since the 14th century have sprung up in and around Milan.
Ambrosians is the name given to several religious brotherhoods which at various times since the 14th century have sprung up in and around Milan.
Ambrosiaster - Author of a Commentary on St. Paul's Epistles
Ambrosiaster is the name given to the unknown author of a commentary on St. Paul's epistles that was originally attributed to St. Ambrose.
Ambrosiaster is the name given to the unknown author of a commentary on St. Paul's epistles that was originally attributed to St. Ambrose.
Ambrosius Aurelianus - Leader of the Britons
Ambrosius Aurelianus was leader of the Britons against the Saxons in the 5th century.
Ambrosius Aurelianus was leader of the Britons against the Saxons in the 5th century.
Amis et Amile - Old French Romance
Amis et Amile was an old French romance based on a widespread legend of friendship and sacrifice.
Amis et Amile was an old French romance based on a widespread legend of friendship and sacrifice.
Jost Amman - Swiss Artist
Jost Amman is celebrated chiefly for his engravings on wood.
Jost Amman is celebrated chiefly for his engravings on wood.
Bartolomeo Ammanati - Florentine Architect and Sculptor
Bartolomeo Ammanati designed many buildings in Rome, Lucca and Florence.
Bartolomeo Ammanati designed many buildings in Rome, Lucca and Florence.
Marcellinus Ammianus - Roman Historian
In his historical writings, Marcellinus Ammianus gives excellent pictures of social and economic problems, and in his attitude to the non-Roman peoples of the empire he is far more broad-minded than writers like Livy and Tacitus.
In his historical writings, Marcellinus Ammianus gives excellent pictures of social and economic problems, and in his attitude to the non-Roman peoples of the empire he is far more broad-minded than writers like Livy and Tacitus.
Scippione Ammirato - Italian Historian
Scippione Ammirato is best known for a history of Florence he wrote in about 1600.
Scippione Ammirato is best known for a history of Florence he wrote in about 1600.
Ammonius Hermiae - Greek Philosopher
Greek Philosopher Ammonius Hermiae lived in the fifth century C.E.
Greek Philosopher Ammonius Hermiae lived in the fifth century C.E.
Amram
Amram was a gaon or head of the Jewish Academy of Sura.
Amram was a gaon or head of the Jewish Academy of Sura.
Amru-ul-Quais
Regarded by Muhammad and others as the most distinguished poet of pre-Islamic times, Amru-ul-Quais was also a soldier.
Regarded by Muhammad and others as the most distinguished poet of pre-Islamic times, Amru-ul-Quais was also a soldier.
Nicolaus von Amsdorf
A life-long supporter of Martin Luther, Nicolaus von Amsdorf took part in founding Jena University
A life-long supporter of Martin Luther, Nicolaus von Amsdorf took part in founding Jena University
Jacques Amyot
A devout and conscientious churchman, Amyot studied at the university of Paris and was made commander of the order of the Holy Ghost.
A devout and conscientious churchman, Amyot studied at the university of Paris and was made commander of the order of the Holy Ghost.
Anabaptists
Anabaptists were various Protestant sects that denied the validity of infant baptism.
Anabaptists were various Protestant sects that denied the validity of infant baptism.
Anachronism
An anachronism is a neglect or falsification, whether wilful or undesigned, of chronological relation.
An anachronism is a neglect or falsification, whether wilful or undesigned, of chronological relation.
'Anan ben David
The founder of the Qaraites, Anan ben David opposed the rabbanite Jews for political as well as theological reasons.
The founder of the Qaraites, Anan ben David opposed the rabbanite Jews for political as well as theological reasons.
Anastasius I
Anastasius was chosen by his predecessor's widow.
Anastasius was chosen by his predecessor's widow.
Anastasius II
Anastasius II was emperor in the 8th century.
Anastasius II was emperor in the 8th century.
The Anglo-Saxon Chronicle
It is usual to speak of "the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle"; it would be more correct to say that there are four Anglo-Saxon Chronicles
It is usual to speak of "the Anglo-Saxon Chronicle"; it would be more correct to say that there are four Anglo-Saxon Chronicles
Anjou
Anjou is the old name of a French territory, the political origin of which is traced to the ancient Gallic state of the Andes.
Anjou is the old name of a French territory, the political origin of which is traced to the ancient Gallic state of the Andes.
Anna Comnena
Known as the first woman historian for her work The Alexiad, Anna Comnena was an ambitious Byzantine princess.
Known as the first woman historian for her work The Alexiad, Anna Comnena was an ambitious Byzantine princess.
Anselm of Canterbury
Anselm became Archbishop of Canterbury with some reluctance.
Anselm became Archbishop of Canterbury with some reluctance.
Antioch
Antioch was destined to rival Alexandria in Egypt as the chief city of the nearer East.
Antioch was destined to rival Alexandria in Egypt as the chief city of the nearer East.
Saint Antoninus - Saint Antonio Pierozzi - Archbishop of Florence
Archbishop of Florence Antonio Pierozzi had a great reputation for theological learning and sat as papal theologian at the council of Florence.
Archbishop of Florence Antonio Pierozzi had a great reputation for theological learning and sat as papal theologian at the council of Florence.
Thomas Aquinas
Thomas Aquinas had great aptitude for philosophy and theology and joined the Dominican order.
Thomas Aquinas had great aptitude for philosophy and theology and joined the Dominican order.
Aquitaine
Aquitaine is the name of an ancient province in France, the extent of which has varied considerably from time to time.
Aquitaine is the name of an ancient province in France, the extent of which has varied considerably from time to time.
Aragon
Aragon is divided by the river Ebro, which flows through it in a south-easterly direction, into two nearly equal parts, known as Trans-ibero and Cis-ibero.
Aragon is divided by the river Ebro, which flows through it in a south-easterly direction, into two nearly equal parts, known as Trans-ibero and Cis-ibero.
Arnulf
Arnulf's real authority did not extend far beyond the confines of Bavaria, and he contented himself with a nominal recognition of his supremacy by the kings who sprang up in various parts of the Empire.
Arnulf's real authority did not extend far beyond the confines of Bavaria, and he contented himself with a nominal recognition of his supremacy by the kings who sprang up in various parts of the Empire.
Arsuf
Arsuf is famous as the scene of a victory of the crusaders under Richard I. of England over the army of Saladin
Arsuf is famous as the scene of a victory of the crusaders under Richard I. of England over the army of Saladin
Arthur
Whether there was an historic Arthur has been much debated.
Whether there was an historic Arthur has been much debated.
Arthurian Legend
By the Arthurian legend we mean the subject-matter of that important body of medieval literature known as the Arthurian cycle.
By the Arthurian legend we mean the subject-matter of that important body of medieval literature known as the Arthurian cycle.
Assassin
Assassin, a general term for a secret murderer, was originally the name of a branch of the Shiite sect known as Isma'ilites.
Assassin, a general term for a secret murderer, was originally the name of a branch of the Shiite sect known as Isma'ilites.
Asser
Asser wrote a biography of King Alfred the Great of England.
Asser wrote a biography of King Alfred the Great of England.
Saint Augustine
In spite of his mother's admonitions and prayers, Augustine grew up without any profession of Christian piety or any devotion to Christian principles.
In spite of his mother's admonitions and prayers, Augustine grew up without any profession of Christian piety or any devotion to Christian principles.
Augustinian Canons
The Rule of St. Augustine was widely adopted by the canons regular, who also began to bind themselves by the vows of poverty, obedience and chastity.
The Rule of St. Augustine was widely adopted by the canons regular, who also began to bind themselves by the vows of poverty, obedience and chastity.
Augustinians
Augustinian is a generic name for religious orders that follow the so-called Rule of St Augustine.
Augustinian is a generic name for religious orders that follow the so-called Rule of St Augustine.
Austrasia
Austrasia signifies the realm of the east.
Austrasia signifies the realm of the east.
Auto-da-Fe
The Auto-da-Fe was the public ceremony during the course of which the sentences of the Spanish inquisition were read and executed.
The Auto-da-Fe was the public ceremony during the course of which the sentences of the Spanish inquisition were read and executed.
Avignon
Avignon is still encircled by the ramparts built by the popes in the 14th century, which offer one of the finest examples of medieval fortification in existence.
Avignon is still encircled by the ramparts built by the popes in the 14th century, which offer one of the finest examples of medieval fortification in existence.