The Italian Renaissance Italian Renaissance: 1500 C.E.-1750 C.E. 1500 C.E.-1750 C.E.

Transition from DARK AGES to REBIRTH: PEGS that brought Europe out of the Dark Ages:

Revival of Classic Learning: Humanism—to focus on the power of humans’ reasoning skills (not the Church!) 3 main Greek & Roman ideas: •Improvement through study & reflection •Commitment to public service •Life long learning

Humanistic thought Education increases •Humanists-Concern with the Greek & Roman Classics •Art & Architecture developed •View of the world changed due to new map making skills after the Crusades •Decline of religion due to Black Death and Crusades •Increased understanding of the world (cultural diffusion)

Medici family gains power The Medicis of Florence, Italy grew very wealthy through trade and banking Usury (interest charged on borrowed money) –forbidden by Church law Opened international banks that were able to use hidden fees when exchanging foreign currency Money=power and influence The Medicis promoted education, the arts, and an understanding of the world Promoted and financed Michelangelo, Donatello, Raphael, Platonic Academy, and opened art gallery: Uffizi

Medici family—rulers of Florence, Italy

Resurgence of cities Italian city-states controlled government in Italy (not one united Italy under one king) City-States ruled by wealthy families or individuals The families influenced the growth of learning, arts, and architecture of the city Church no longer the only influence!

Renaissance Politics Same problems as Greek city-states with inter-city warfare Leaders led through fear to motivate citizens

Renaissance Economics Profit-making became more important than Church doctrine Influence of guilds declining The use of art work to advertise products intensified competition Idea of banking allowed average people to save for finer items Medici family merchant

Renaissance Culture Very family orientated because of Medici family’s values Marriages were frequently arranged to strengthen business ties Women such as Isabella d’Este could gain status by valuing the arts Education valued studying history A true humanist educates ALL—rich, poor, men, and women Isabella d’Este

Renaissance Art Number of portraits painted during this era illustrates focus on the individual Pagan scenes and myths were popular subjects with no apologies to the Church Perspective –use of depth focuses on the human and the scenery of Italy

Focus on the famous Greek philosophers and Roman architects

Medieval culture, politics, and economics?