1. Key Figures Involved in the Renaissance

2. The Medicis A family of bankers who ruled Florence They paid many artists during the Renaissance, which meant they were patrons. Without them, the Renaissance may not have happened. But it wasn’t all good… Lorenzo de Medici became leader of Florence at the age of 20 after his father died.

3. Niccolo Machiavelli An advisor to the Medicis. Wrote the book called “The Prince” focusing on government. It gave tips on how a king could take and hold power. What did he think about how the government should be ruled?

4. Niccolo Machiavelli The king needs to be the most feared person in the town so people would obey him. Cheat, just don’t get caught. The people who cheat are more successful. When you try to be a leader, lie so you sound generous.

5. In Society William Shakespeare: Arguably the greatest playwright in history. Most well-known work is Romeo and Juliet. Hamlet is considered by many to be the best play ever written. Shakespeare wrote dozens of plays, poems, sonnets, during his life. His plays are still read around the world and are still the basis for many modern movies.

6. In Art Michelangelo: Known for the David, Moses, and Pieta Did not want to be a painter, only wanted to sculpt. The Sistine Chapel. This is a painting on the ceiling of a church. It took over four years to finish. Michelangelo didn’t want to do it but was forced by the pope.