History 165 Midterm Flashcards

Questions and Answers

What were abacus schools?

Schools in Italy where children were prepared for commerce, learning math, business, and trading.

Who was Leon Battista Alberti?

An Italian humanist and architect known as the first 'universal genius'.

What is the facade of Santa Maria Novella known for?

It is one of the most well-known examples of early Renaissance architecture.

What is Palazzo Rucellai?

A fifteenth century townhouse in Florence designed by Leon Battista Alberti. Signup and view all the answers

What is the Tempio Malatestiano?

A chapel in Rimini, Italy, originally a gothic church renovated by Alberti. Signup and view all the answers

What does 'De Familia' discuss?

It discusses familial roles and behavior in a domestic setting. Signup and view all the answers

What is 'De pictura' about?

A treatise written by Alberti that describes the arts through geometry. Signup and view all the answers

What is the focus of 'De re aedificatoria'?

It is a treatise on the art of building, focused on architecture and urban planning. Signup and view all the answers

Who were the Albizzi family?

A powerful aristocratic family that ruled Florence in the second half of the 14th century. Signup and view all the answers

What is an altarpiece?

A work of art that captures a religious moment, found above or behind altars in a church. Signup and view all the answers

Who is Beatrice in Dante's works?

Dante's original muse and a character based on a girl he fell in love with. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Abacus School

Educational institutions in Italy for commerce preparation.
Focused on mathematics, business, and trading skills.
Attended predominantly by upper middle-class children.

Leon Battista Alberti

Italian humanist and architect (1404-1472), recognized as the first "universal genius."
Authored works discussing linear perspective and artistic techniques.
Notable designs include the facade of Palazzo Rucellai and Basilica di Saint'Andrea.
His constructions reflected humanist ideals but he did not engage in physical building projects.

Facade of Santa Maria Novella

Renowned example of early Renaissance architecture by Alberti from the mid-15th century.
Successfully harmonized new architectural styles with existing structures.
Influenced by mathematical and geometric studies, showcasing Platonic philosophy.

Palazzo Rucellai

Fifteenth-century townhouse in Florence, designed by Alberti for Giovanni de Paolo Rucellai.
Execution of the project was carried out by architect Bernardo Russellino.

Tempio Malatestiano

Chapel in Rimini commissioned by Sigismondo Pandolfo Malatesta, a military general and art patron.
Originally a Gothic church, renovated by Alberti in 1446 but left unfinished after Malatesta's death.
Features relief work by artists Auggistino Duccio and Bernardo Ciuffagni, supplemented with Neo-Platonic iconography inspired by philosopher Gemistus Pletho.

De Familia

Alberti's first treatise, written in 1443-44, encompassing three books.
Discusses domestic behavior and familial roles, including dynamics between husbands and wives.

De pictura

Treatise by Alberti detailing art through the lens of geometry.
Explores the principles of visual composition, light, and color for effective painting.
Addresses moral and artistic qualifications necessary for a painter's success.

De re aedificatoria

Alberti’s 1450 work that critiques and expands on Vitruvius's "Ten Books of Architecture."
A modern architectural theory that integrates classical design with innovative mathematical concepts.
Emphasizes aesthetics in architecture with a focus on unity and harmony (concinnitas) in design.

Albizzi Family

Prominent ruling family in Florence during the late 14th century, adversaries to the Medici.
Rinaldo Albizzi, a diplomat and soldier, led the family aimed at preserving aristocratic power.
Initiated conflicts to expand Florence's territory, which ultimately backfired.

Altarpiece

Artistic compositions, often paintings or sculptures, usually found above church altars.
Can consist of multiple panels (diptych, triptych, polyptych).
Served to showcase artistic talent and often funded by affluent families.

Beatrice

Dante Alighieri's original muse, inspired by a real-life love interest.
Plays a pivotal role in Dante's poetic works, symbolizing divine blessings and guidance.

Description

Test your knowledge with these flashcards covering key concepts from History 165. Learn about notable figures and educational systems like the abacus school and Leon Battista Alberti, who made significant contributions during the Renaissance. Perfect for midterm preparation!