Renaissance “re-birth”
How can the culture of our society change the way we see ourselves? Humanism: An intellectual movement of the Renaissance based on the study of the humanities (grammar, rhetoric, poetry, history, Greek and Roman works) People focused on themselves, their individuality, their ability to make change, their self worth “Men can do all things if they will”- Leon Batista Alberti
What was the Italian Renaissance? A re-birth of classical Greek and Roman inspired learning that spread throughout Europe Art, Inventions, theater, Philosophy, science, history
Where did it start? Italy Mainly Florence, Milan & Venice
Why Italy? 1. Built on top of Greek and Roman civilizations 2. Contact with Byzantine and Muslim civilizations allowed new ideas and wealth of trade 3. During Middle Ages, Italian cities became very wealthy and powerful without a single ruler (like other nations). City-states acted as own nations. They competed which led to improvements in society 4. Due to decline of Church power, Italians become more secular, a worldly viewpoint that develops as increasing levels of wealth created new enjoyment of material things. 4. Recovering from the plague, political instability & decline of Church power allowed for rebirth of interest in ancient past. 5. Wealthy people supported the arts
Who was mostly affected? Wealthy middle-class but ideas during the Renaissance could be seen everywhere
When was the Italian Renaissance? 1500s-1800s (between Middle Ages & Modern Times)
How did it spread to other parts of Europe? 1. Students attending college in Italy went back home and brought new ideas/culture 2. Johannes Gutenberg printing press- produced books quietly and inexpensively. Spread ideas throughout Europe through books which increased literacy rates. People can finally learn stuff! Quick learn to read! 3. France, Germany were involved in Italian wars. Brought back ideas to countries.
They were patrons of the arts (meaning supporter) The Medici Family A powerful family in Florence who were known for their banks and cloth manufacturing. They were patrons of the arts (meaning supporter) They ran the government of the city behind the scenes
CSI: Florence
Italian Wars King Charles VIII of France led an army to Italy. Italy asked for help from Spain. The two countries fought for Italy for 30 years. 1527, Spanish soldiers were allowed to complete sack Rome and take control.
Niccolo Machiavelli
Do good when possible but evil when necessary. Machiavelli He wrote a book called The Prince, based on how to acquire and keep political power. Middle Ages focused on the moral side of political power, the Christian way of ruling. Machiavelli believed morality had little to do with politics. He claimed you must understand the nature of humans to have power. Do good when possible but evil when necessary.
Review How did the ideas of Humanism affect political powers during the Renaissance?