Chapter 12: Recovery and Rebirth: The Age of the Renaissance 337-370

Who was Burckhardt?

He was a Swiss historian and art critic who created the modern Renaissance concept in 1860. Thought Italy was the birthplace of the modern world. Didn't place importance on religious aspects of the time.

How did Renaissance art and the humanist movement reflect the political, economic, and social developments of the period?

Art wasn't just about religion showing a secular way of thinking was becoming more popular. Also, artists gained respect and had more economic stability. Economics as a whole was very stable and thriving allowing nobles to pursue education to separate themselves from the masses. Art focused on details and the human form, reflecting the new "self-importance" ideas being adopted by many people during the time.

Why do historians sometimes refer to the monarchies of the late 15th century as "new monarchies" or "Renaissance states"?

Because after the Middle Ages, France, Spain, and Europe (major powers in Europe) went under large changes in regards to their monarchies. These monarchies were strengthened and more power was given to the monarch rather than the Church.

Who are the Medici?

Expanded their work to banking. Became the best bank in Europe during the 1400's. Collapsed due to bad loans in the late 1400s.

What was humanism, and what effect did it have on philosophy, education, attitudes toward politics, and the writing of history?

Humanism was the concept of individual self-worth and meaning outside the traditional societal hierarchy. People began to become interested the betterment of themselves through education. They questioned things through philosophy. They became more interested and involved in politics and began to record history that wasn't soley related to religion.

How did Machiavelli's works reflect the political realities of Renaissance Italy?

Machiavelli took a new, realistic approach to politics. He believed it was okay to do bad things for the betterment of oneself or country. These beliefs became common practice amoung Italian politicians.

Was the Renaissance truly a historical break from the Middle Ages?

No. In Italy, only the small % of wealthy citizens showcased "Renaissance characteristics". The products of the movement were from the elite, not a mass of people. Many of the social changes of the Renaissance were inherited from the society of the Middle Ages.

What were the chief characteristics of Renaissance art, and how did it differ in Italy and northern Europe?

Renaissance art as a whole was very focused on creating realistic works and works showcasing the human figure. In Italy, artists focused on accuracy, the human form, and technical skills. Northern artists focused on detials, emotion, and devotional art.

What was the Renaissance?

Renaissance means "rebirth" It was a period of change through a gradual transition. While only the elite was majorly affected by the political, economic, social, intellectual, cultural, and artistic developments, the Renaissance laied a path for future changes that lead us to our current society.

What were the policies of the Renaissance popes, and what impact did those policies have on the Catholic Church?

Renaissance popes were trying to maintain power while reforms were being brought up across Europe. Popes tried to eliminate the ability of people to make reforms so they could maintain power. The Churches became corrupt as popes became interested in politics and war.

What characteristics distinguish the Renaissance from the Middle Ages?

The Middle Ages were characterized by a lack of classical culture, Black Death, poor economy, political disorder. The Renaissance included interest in Greco-Roman culture, recovery from the Black Death, regained momentum for the economy, increasing wealth, and growing urban areas.

What are "new monarchies"?

The newly "editied" European, French, and Spanish monarchies.

What major social changes occurred during the Renaissance?

The social structure was inherited from the Middle Ages, but experienced adaptions. Nobles increasingly pursued education. Serfdom and the Feudal system began to dissipate as a result of a money system. Large gaps between social groups Increase in slavery Affairs were accepted for men and scorned for women due to marriage practices. Modern diplomatic System Ideas and need for political power