Video Notes: Renaissance, Printing Press, and Economic/Political Shifts

Vocabulary flashcards covering causes and outcomes of the Italian Renaissance, changes in religion, impact of the printing press, and associated political/economic context.

Italian Renaissance

Period of renewed interest in classical antiquity that began in 14th–15th century Italian city-states and spread across Europe.

Feudalism

Medieval political/economic system based on lords, vassals, and peasants; its decline helped shift to a market economy and urban life.

Revival of Roman/Greek texts

Rediscovery and study of ancient Roman and Greek writings that inspired new ideas in art, science, and humanities.

Printing press

Printing technology that enabled rapid production of books, spreading knowledge and literacy widely.

Vernacular

Everyday spoken language; increased use in books and texts, making knowledge accessible to more people.

Secularism

Emphasis on worldly rather than religious concerns in art, science, and politics during the Renaissance.

Reformation

16th‑century movement challenging papal authority and leading to Protestant churches.

Papal power decline

Reduction in the political influence of the pope as secular authorities and national monarchies expanded.

Education

Spread of literacy and learning, aided by printed materials and urban growth.

Communication

Transmission of ideas and information; improved by networks and the printing press.

Vernacular literature

Writings produced in local languages rather than Latin, increasing accessibility.

Black Death

14th-century plague that caused massive population loss and reshaped European society.

Increased trade (Europe to Asia)

Growth of long‑distance commerce linking Europe with Asia, fueling wealth and urban growth.

Merchant class

Wealthy urban traders and financiers who funded art, education, and infrastructure.

City-states

Independent Italian states (e.g., Florence, Venice) that were political and cultural centers.

Peasantry decline

Reduction in peasant life or population as urbanization and economic changes occurred.