Renaissance Era Quiz

The Renaissance spanned from the 14th to the 17th century, marking a cultural, artistic, political, and economic rebirth in Europe.
Notable for the revival of classical philosophy, literature, and art, bridging the Middle Ages and modern civilization.

Often referred to as the "Dark Ages," lasting from the fall of Rome in 476 A.D. to the 14th century.
Characterized by minimal advancements in science and art, along with turmoil from wars, famine, and pandemics like the Black Death.
Some historians dispute the extent of the negativity associated with this era, arguing there were notable developments.

Emerged in the 14th century, primarily in Italy, emphasizing the importance of human achievements in various fields.
Humanism positioned man as the center of his own universe, promoting the value of education, classical arts, literature, and science.
The invention of the Gutenberg printing press in 1450 facilitated the spread of humanist texts, enhancing communication and access to knowledge.

The flourishing of cultural and scientific exploration during the Renaissance led to a decline in the Church's absolute authority.
Intellectual curiosity and skepticism of the Church paved the way for the Reformation.

The Renaissance began in Florence, Italy, supported by affluent citizens like the Medici family, influential patrons of the arts.
Members of the Medici family promoted artists and thinkers, significantly impacting the cultural landscape of the time.
Renaissance ideas spread from Florence to other Italian city-states and later to France and beyond.

Leonardo da Vinci (1452–1519): Renowned Italian painter and polymath known for masterpieces like "The Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper."
Desiderius Erasmus (1466–1536): Dutch scholar who became a leading figure of Northern European humanism; translated the New Testament into Greek.
Rene Descartes (1596–1650): French philosopher and mathematician, regarded as the father of modern philosophy; famous for the statement, “I think; therefore I am.”
Galileo Galilei (1564–1642): Italian astronomer and physicist known for his telescope discoveries including Jupiter's moons; faced house arrest for his heliocentric views.
Nicolaus Copernicus (1473–1543): Mathematician and astronomer who proposed the heliocentric model of the solar system.
Thomas Hobbes (1588–1679): English philosopher and author of "Leviathan," known for his social contract theory.

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