Humanities exam revision

What is Humanism in the context of the Renaissance?

A movement that emphasized the value of human potential and achievements, focusing on the study of classical texts and subjects like philosophy, literature, and history.

What were the key advancements in Science and Exploration during the Renaissance?

Significant advancements were made in science and mathematics, with figures like Galileo and Copernicus questioning traditional views and contributing to new knowledge about the universe.

What is Perspective in Art, and how did it impact Renaissance artwork?

A technique pioneered by Renaissance artists to create depth and realism in paintings, using linear perspective and chiaroscuro to produce more lifelike representations.

What role did patronage play in Renaissance art?

Patrons, often wealthy city leaders, financially supported artists, enabling them to create significant works and contribute to the flourishing of the arts.

What is Feudalism?

A social and economic system in medieval Europe characterized by land ownership and duties between lords, vassals, and serfs.

What was the Manor System?

An economic system organizing rural communities around a lord's manor, with serfs and peasants working the land to support the feudal lord.

Who were the Samurai in Japan, and what role did they play?

They were warrior class members in feudal Japan, serving the shogun and daimyo, following the code of bushido, emphasizing loyalty and honor.

What was the policy of Isolationism during the Tokugawa Shogunate?

A policy that banned foreign travel and imposed strict trade limitations to preserve Japanese culture and prevent Western influence.

What is Bushido?

The code of honor and moral principles guiding the samurai in their conduct, emphasizing loyalty, honor, and martial arts.

What impact did the arrival of Europeans have on Japan during the Tokugawa period?

The arrival of Europeans introduced potential trade benefits but resulted in Japan adopting isolationist policies to limit foreign influence.

How did the Merchant Class thrive despite being at the bottom of the social hierarchy in Japan?

Merchants grew wealthy through trade, gaining cultural influence, and sponsoring arts, despite their low social status according to Confucian values.

What was the role of the Daimyo in the Japanese feudal system?

Daimyo were powerful landowners and vassals in the feudal structure, wielding significant local power and control over samurai and territory.

What were key themes depicted in Renaissance art?

Renaissance art commonly depicted themes of humanism, mythology, religious subjects, and realism using new techniques.

What was the impact of the printing press on Renaissance art and ideas?

The printing press facilitated the wider dissemination of Renaissance ideas, enabling more people to access literature, art, and scientific concepts.

Who were the Medicis, and what role did they have in the Renaissance?

A powerful banking family that played a crucial role as patrons of the arts, significantly influencing the development of Renaissance culture.

What is Classical Humanism?

A Renaissance philosophy that emphasizes the study of classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome as a means to understand human nature and improve society.

Who were some notable Renaissance artists known for their contributions to art?

Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael are key figures known for their masterpieces and innovations in art during the Renaissance.

How did the Renaissance contribute to the Scientific Revolution?

The Renaissance encouraged inquiry and exploration, leading to the development of the scientific method and significant breakthroughs in various scientific fields.

What is the significance of the Sistine Chapel?

An emblematic artistic work of the Renaissance, known for its ceiling painted by Michelangelo, showcasing biblical scenes and humanist ideals.

What were some common materials used by Renaissance artists?

Artists commonly used oil paints, fresco techniques, and canvas to achieve vibrant colors and intricate details.

What is the significance of the Reformation in relation to Humanism?

The Reformation was influenced by humanist ideas, leading to challenges against the Catholic Church and encouraging individual interpretation of scriptures.

What is Chiaroscuro in art?

A technique used to create a strong contrast between light and dark to give a sense of volume and dimensionality to objects in paintings.

What were the social impacts of the Renaissance in Europe?

The Renaissance fostered increased literacy, the rise of a wealthy merchant class, and greater emphasis on individual achievement and expression.

How did Renaissance architecture differ from medieval architecture?

Renaissance architecture emphasized symmetry, proportion, and geometry, incorporating classical elements like columns and domes, in contrast to the Gothic style.

What was the role of women in Renaissance society?

Women in Renaissance society often had limited rights and opportunities, yet some, like Isabella d'Este and Sofonisba Anguissola, gained recognition in the arts and politics.

What is the significance of linear perspective in Renaissance art?

Linear perspective is a mathematical system used by artists to create an illusion of depth, allowing for more realistic representations of space in artworks.

What were the effects of the Renaissance on education in Europe?

The Renaissance led to the establishment of universities and a greater emphasis on classical education, promoting critical thinking and individual learning.

How did exploration and colonization relate to Renaissance ideals?

The spirit of inquiry and adventure during the Renaissance fueled exploration, leading to increased trade, cultural exchanges, and the spread of European influence globally.

What is an example of a major literary work from the Renaissance period?

One notable literary work is 'The Prince' by Niccolò Machiavelli, which discusses political power and statecraft.

In what ways did the Renaissance influence modern Western culture?

The Renaissance laid the groundwork for modern science, art, literature, and political thought, greatly influencing contemporary Western values and ideas.

What role did the city of Florence play in the Renaissance?

Florence was a cultural hub during the Renaissance, known for its artistic achievements, the emergence of humanism, and the patronage of powerful families