The Renaissance: Arts, Science, and Culture

Scientific Discoveries

• Revolution in Astronomy: Nicolaus Copernicus proposes a heliocentric model, challenging geocentric views.
• Anatomical Studies: Andreas Vesalius publishes "De humani corporis fabrica", a foundational work on human anatomy.
• Mathematical Advancements: Luca Pacioli and Niccolò Tartaglia contribute to the development of mathematics, including the concept of zero.

Art and Architecture

• Renaissance Humanism: Art and architecture focused on human proportions, classical styles, and realistic representations.
• Famous Artists:
  • Leonardo da Vinci: Polymath and artist, known for the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper.
  • Michelangelo: Sculptor, painter, and architect, famous for the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
  • Raphael: Painter and architect, known for his frescoes in the Vatican.
• Architectural Innovations:
  • Use of perspective and proportion in building design.
  • Development of the Renaissance arch, dome, and column.

Literary Movements

• Humanism: Focus on classical texts, individualism, and human potential.
• Renaissance Neoplatonism: Revival of Plato's philosophies, emphasizing the potential for human beings to achieve divine-like status.

Politics and Monarchies

• City-States: Independent city-states like Florence, Venice, and Milan emerged as powerful entities.
• Monarchical Power: Kingdoms like France, Spain, and England consolidated power, leading to the rise of absolute monarchies.
• Medici Family: Ruled Florence, patronizing the arts and fostering a cultural revival.

Cultural Revival

• Classical Influences: Revival of interest in classical Greek and Roman culture, art, and literature.
• Urbanization: Growth of cities, leading to increased cultural exchange and intellectual pursuits.

Florence

• Birthplace of the Renaissance: Florence was a hub for artistic, scientific, and cultural innovation.
• Medici Family: Ruled Florence, fostering a cultural revival through patronage of the arts.

Medici Family

• Rulers of Florence: The Medici family ruled Florence, promoting the arts, science, and culture.
• Patronage: The Medici family sponsored famous artists, including Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael.

Leonardo da Vinci

• Polymath: Artist, inventor, engineer, and scientist, known for his innovative designs and inventions.
• Famous Works: Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, and Vitruvian Man.

Raphael

• Painter and Architect: Known for his frescoes in the Vatican, including The School of Athens.
• Innovative Style: Developed a unique style blending classical and Renaissance elements.

Michelangelo

• Sculptor, Painter, and Architect: Famous for the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel and his sculptures, such as David.
• Innovative Techniques: Developed new techniques in sculpture and painting, pushing the boundaries of Renaissance art.