Questions: In the seventh century, the English church adopted a clearer hierarchy of bishops and priests, began to be organized into monasteries, answered only to the pope in Rome, was overrun by the Vikings and all but destroyed in the south.

The answer is A: adopted a clearer hierarchy of bishops and priests.

Explanation for each option:

A. Adopted a clearer hierarchy of bishops and priests: This is correct. In the seventh century, the English church underwent significant organizational changes, including the establishment of a more defined hierarchy of bishops and priests. This was part of the broader process of Christianization and church organization in England, influenced by figures such as Augustine of Canterbury.

B. Began to be organized into monasteries: While monasticism was indeed an important aspect of the English church during this period, it was not the primary organizational change. Monasteries had already been established earlier, and the seventh century saw more focus on diocesan structures.

C. Answered only to the pope in Rome: This is incorrect. While the English church did have connections to Rome, especially through figures like Augustine of Canterbury, it was not solely answerable to the pope. The church had its own local structures and influences.

D. Was overrun by the Vikings and all but destroyed in the south: This is incorrect for the seventh century. Viking invasions became a significant threat later, particularly in the late eighth and ninth centuries. The seventh century was more about the establishment and consolidation of the church rather than its destruction.