1. The Italian Renaissance
Italian Renaissance: 1500 C.E C.E.
1500 C.E C.E.

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

3. 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

4. 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)

5. 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

6. Medici family—rulers of Florence, Italy

7. 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!

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

10. 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

11. 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

12. 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

14. Focus on the famous Greek philosophers and Roman architects

16. Medieval culture, politics, and economics?