1. The “rebirth” of Europe RENAISSANCE

2.  Renaissance – Italian for rebirth  If something is reborn, what does it imply?  Huge growth in art, writing, philosophy, learning that takes place from 1300 to 1600  What would you need to have for people to grow in writing, art, learning, and philosophy? WHAT DOES RENAISSANCE MEAN?

3. Renaissance begins in Italy for a lot of reasons – Trade – lots of trade went through Florence, Venice, Milan – other city-states Trade grew because of Crusades – why? – Lots of money available Rich patrons supported artistic development – Close to Greece and Rome Renaissance influenced by them ITALY – BIRTHPLACE OF RENAISSANCE

4. Where have we seen humanism before? Humanism – focused on ability of individual humans, rather than giving credit to gods – Main philosophy of Renaissance Religion de-emphasized, secular (non-religious) world more important – Religion still very important (artwork shows that) HUMANISM

5. Scholars in Renaissance didn’t want to focus on just one subject, but become masters of everything Known as Renaissance Men, or polymaths Basically trying to find out how much human beings could accomplish RENAISSANCE MAN

6.  Should be well-educated  Still very little influence in politics  Much more of a public voice than before  Still not equals RENAISSANCE WOMAN

7.  “The Godfathers of the Renaissance”  Banking family – become leaders of city- state of Florence  Encouraged the arts  Acted as patrons to support the works of artists  Also encouraged famous artists to live in Florence THE MEDICI FAMILY

8.  Most important question for you to consider: how could the philosophy of humanism help lead to the transformation, or rebirth, of Europe that we see in the Renaissance? QUESTION TO CONSIDER

9.  You are going to examine quotes around the room that represent the different ideas of humanism  Please note: not all of these quotes were said by people during the Renaissance. Instead, these quotes are meant to show you what humanism is all about.  You are going to read through these quotes and use them to help you answer the questions on your worksheet. DIRECTIONS