1. The Italian Renaissance

2. What was it? Period of European re-connection with its classical past
It was also an explosion of creativity in arts, architecture, literature
When was it?
No set beginning / end dates
Generally accepted as 1350s to about 1500

3. Where did it Begin, and Why?
Began in Northern Italy, in Florence
Why there?
Florence was a powerful City State
Overseas trade led to growth, wealth of Florence
Florentine merchants had MONEY!!!
Earned - not inherited - rank
Individual achievement = imp. Renaissance theme
Financially supported the Arts

4. Where, and why?
Classical heritage of Romans all around Florentines / Italians
Drew inspiration from Roman ruins around them
Conscious of “looking backwards” in history; looked down on medieval period

5. Why did it occur?
Crusades brought Europeans into contact with scientifically superior Muslims
Decline of Constantinople ( ) saw scholars flee to Italy & Florence
Black Death killed 1/3 of European population, causing shift in survivor’s world view

6. Why did it occur?
Rich Florentines supported the arts, encouraging artists to come to Florence to work
Eviction of Jews from Spain (1492) brought with them Moorish learning, writings

7. Renaissance Attitude Humanism
Elites valued reason and evidence of senses (vs. Middle Ages values of humility, faith)
Studied ancient texts to understand Greek, Roman values
New access to original Greek translations allowed for correction of errors in church documents

8. Renaissance “Attitude”
Acceptance of Worldly Pleasures
Humanists believed one could enjoy life without offending God
Elites were still religious, but more focused on secular world
Elites enjoyed material luxury (spices, glass, art) from outside Italy
Patrons of the Arts
Rich merchants (glorify themselves)
Church (Glorify God)