The English Renaissance 1485-1660
Dramatic shifts in human values and perception: Began in 14th century Italy, came to England I 1485 when Wars of the Roses ended Religion and afterlife --- human life on earth Delight in art/literature Beauty of nature New sense of mastery over the world
Historically… Political instability Establishing claims in New World Henry VIII: Protestant Reformation, 1534 Church of England, or Anglican Church Edward VI: Book of Common Prayer “Bloody” Mary: persecution of Protestants
Elizabethan era: Renaissance reached full flower Unprecedented prosperity and international prestige Avoided costly overseas wars Reestablished the independent Church of England
Reinterpretation of Europe’s pre-Christian past: Using the arts and philosophies of ancient Greece and Rome as models for achievements
Creative energy expanded boundaries: Scientific, Geographical, and Philosophical boundaries of medieval world Questioned timeworn truths Challenged authority
New emphasis placed on individual Development of human potential “Renaissance man”—ideal man, many-faceted person who cultivated his innate talents to the fullest