The Renaissance Overview

Study Notes

Definition: A period of cultural and intellectual flourishing in Europe, marked by a renewed interest in classical learning and a shift towards humanism.
Key Ideas: Humanism, individualism, a focus on human potential and achievements, and a renewed interest in art, literature, and science.
Causes: Decline of the medieval feudal system, growth of trade and urban centers, rediscovery of classical texts, patronage of the arts by wealthy individuals and families.
Humanism: Focused on human potential and achievements, emphasized reason, observation, and individual experience. A shift from a solely religious worldview to one that incorporated human values and concerns.
Italian Renaissance: Inspired by classical Roman and Greek civilizations as a way to reclaim their lost culture.
Renaissance Man: A well-rounded individual skilled in various fields, with a balanced education and a mastery of art, science, and humanities. Leonardo da Vinci is considered the ideal Renaissance man.
Patron: A person who financially supports the arts, often by commissioning works of art, providing funding to artists, or sponsoring artistic projects.

Causes: Church corruption, including the sale of indulgences, the rise of humanism, the growing power of secular rulers, and theological disputes.
Martin Luther's Criticism: The central corruption he attacked was the sale of indulgences. He believed that salvation comes through faith alone, not through good works or indulgences.
Martin Luther: A German theologian who published his "95 Theses" criticizing the church's practices. His teachings led to the development of Lutheranism, a new branch of Christianity.
Martin Luther and The Printing Press: The invention of the printing press allowed for the mass-printing of Luther's writings, spreading his ideas throughout Europe.
John Calvin: A French theologian who developed Calvinism. Calvin believed in predestination, the idea that God has already chosen who will go to heaven. He also emphasized the importance of the Bible and a strict moral code.
Henry VIII and the Church of England: King Henry VIII broke away from the Catholic Church when the Pope refused to grant him an annulment from his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. He established the Church of England, a new Protestant church.