The Renaissance 1300-1650

The Renaissance in Italy 1 The Renaissance in Italy Objectives: Why were the Italian city-states a favorable setting for a cultural rebirth? What was the Renaissance? What themes and techniques did Renaissance artists and writers explore?

life in the City-States Social structure was not based around manor life, but city-life and trade Guilds- groups where members are involved in the same trade; Metalworkers, merchants, bakers, etc. As guilds became more powerful, they wanted a greater say in politics and government, the Popolo, or organization of guilds fought for rights Raised status of the “Common Man” to “Citizen”

Commercial Success – The “Merchant Princes” Money Translated into cultural and political power These were individuals and families who had become wealthy through trade. They had a respect for human achievement and a commitment to public good. Medici Family at the center of Italian Renaissance Cosimo de’ Medici consolidated power in 1434 A.D. Grandson, Lorenzo de’ Medici became patron – or financial supporter of the arts

The Medici Family Cosimo-spent part of his wealth on charitable acts, lived simply, and cultivated literature and the arts. Amassed the largest library in Europe, brought in many Greek sources. He was a patron of many artists including the great master Donatello. Florence became the cultural center of Europe and the center of the new Humanism. Lorenzo The Magnificent," as he was called by the people of Florence, was a statesman, ruler, and patron of the arts. Lorenzo ruled Florence with his younger brother, Giuliano, from 1469 to 1478. He contributed more than anyone to the Florentine art, supporting such Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Videos The Medicis- Godfathers of the Renaissance https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOAVRcI6mFU&list =PL6oforB7ir5JnS2wIJlMYixC5rWlzqtET School of Life https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fI1OeMmwYjU PBS- http://www.pbs.org/empires/medici/timeline/turning_f la.html