1. The Renaissance

2. The Renaissance Took place between 1300 – 1600
Marked the beginning of modern civilization
Began in Italy and spread to northern Europe
Italian renaissance emerged new trains of thought: classicism, individualism, humanism, & secularism

3. Classicism Rebirth of Roman and Greek civilization values by scholars
Why:
Medieval civilization was disintegrating
Italy once centre of a great empire so maybe once again
Scholars fled to Italy from Constantinople in 1453 when Turks gained power

4. Individualism Leaders of Italian city-states merchant class
This group rejected medieval thought that only three important groups in society: clergy, nobles, peasants
Merchants also rejected belief of life was preparation for happier life after death
Many used wealth to support writers and artists who believed in individualism
Individualism spread because of this

5. Humanism Developed from the study of classic literature
Greeks and Romans believed that an individual should develop many talents
This would lead to a full and happy life
This belief was revived in 1400s

6. Secularism
In the Middle Ages, scholars depended on religious faith and reason to understand the world
Renaissance scholars stressed secularism
This meant dependence on mind and senses
Secularism emphasized the world not life after death

7. Effects of the Renaissance
Great advances in art and literature
None in science until late 1500s
Only scholars, artists, and some nobles benefited
Peasants (80% of pop) changed little
Greatest effects felt in centuries to follow
Renaissance made merchants and artisans more important
New social order brought to Europe because of the Renaissance