Overview
This lecture explores the Renaissance, a transformative period from the 14th to 17th centuries that revolutionized art, science, and ideas across Europe.
What Was the Renaissance?
- The Renaissance means "rebirth" and spanned the 14th-17th centuries, starting in Italy.
- It marked a shift from a religious, medieval worldview to humanism, art, and scientific inquiry.
- Rediscovery of Greek and Roman knowledge shaped new perspectives on life and the world.
Causes of the Renaissance
- The fall of Constantinople in 1453 brought ancient texts and scholars to Italy.
- Wealthy Italian city states like Florence, Venice, and Milan supported art and learning.
- Gutenberg’s invention of the printing press in 1440 made books more accessible.
- The philosophy of humanism emphasized human achievements and potential.
Art and Architecture
- Renaissance artists used perspective, proportion, and light to depict reality.
- Leonardo da Vinci was known for the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and scientific studies.
- Michelangelo created the statue of David and painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
- Raphael’s works, such as The School of Athens, exemplified harmony and balance.
- Architecture revived classical Roman ideas, seen in Brunelleschi’s dome in Florence.
Science and Discoveries
- Copernicus and Galileo challenged geocentric models, advancing astronomy.
- Medical knowledge improved through anatomy, leading to better surgery.
- Explorers like Columbus, Vasco da Gama, and Magellan expanded global trade routes and exploration.
Literature and Philosophy
- Writers like Dante, Petrarch, and Boccaccio developed humanist literature.
- William Shakespeare captured complex human emotions in his plays.
- Philosophers Erasmus and Thomas More questioned religious and political traditions, inspiring reform.
Impact of the Renaissance
- The Renaissance laid foundations for modern science, democracy, and artistic expression.
- It continues to influence today’s art, technology, and ideas.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Renaissance — A period of cultural rebirth in Europe from the 14th to 17th centuries.
- Humanism — A philosophy valuing human potential and achievements over purely religious concerns.
- Printing Press — Machine invented by Gutenberg in 1440 that made mass printing of books possible.
- Perspective — Artistic technique for representing three-dimensional space on a flat surface.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review key figures and their contributions to Renaissance art, science, and literature.
- Reflect on which Renaissance figure you find most inspiring and why.