Bernard of Clairvaux
What Bernard of Clairvaux means in History A-Level, as defined for AQA, Pearson Edexcel.
Definitions of Bernard of Clairvaux
Exam boards and our study guides word this term in slightly different ways. Learn the version your board uses.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Bernard of Clairvaux in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: AQA
Preacher whose charismatic preaching galvanised mass participation, recruiting King Louis VII at Vézelay and King Conrad III later at Speyer.
A preacher who spread enthusiasm, notably for the Second Crusade, by framing the expedition as a devotional act.
Topics that use Bernard of Clairvaux
- 1A The Age of the Crusades, c1071–1204 – The foundation of new states and the Second Crusade, c1099–1149 (AQA A-Level)
- Reasons for the crusades, 1095–1192 (Pearson Edexcel A-Level)
Related terms
- Byzantine security and the appeal for Western aid
- Consequences of military failure
- Diplomacy and alliances
- Economic networks
- Ideological shifts and morale
- Leadership and propaganda
- Military defence
- Military strategy
Using Bernard of Clairvaux in the exam
Check the command word and mark scheme for your exact question. After comparing your explanation with the reference, use the term in an answer on the linked topic. This practice does not predict an exam mark.
Practise History questions
Create a free account to answer exam-style questions on this topic and get feedback on your answers.
A week of Premium from your first lesson · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge