Key Themes of the Renaissance and Reformation

What significant social change occurred during the Renaissance?

The decline of feudalism and the rise of cities and commerce.

What facilitated the rediscovery of classical texts during the Renaissance?

Classical texts were preserved by Muslims and brought to Europe via trade and conquest.

What intellectual movement developed during the Renaissance that emphasized classical texts and individualism?

Humanism.

Which city-states were central to the Italian Renaissance?

Florence, Venice, and Milan.

Who is considered the Father of Humanism?

Petrarch.

What is the main theme of Machiavelli's work 'The Prince'?

Political realism and secular politics.

What does Castiglione's 'The Book of the Courtier' describe?

The qualities of the ideal Renaissance man.

What was the role of patrons during the Renaissance?

Wealthy elites, including the Medici family and popes, supported artists and intellectuals.

How did the Northern Renaissance differ from the Italian Renaissance?

It was more religious and reform-minded, focusing on Christian Humanism.

What is Christian Humanism?

A blend of classical learning and Christian values.

What was Erasmus's contribution to the Northern Renaissance?

He wrote 'In Praise of Folly,' criticizing the Church while advocating for reform.

What did Thomas More's 'Utopia' critique?

Corruption and private property.

What are some innovations in Renaissance art?

Linear perspective, chiaroscuro, and realism.

Name two famous Italian artists of the Renaissance.

Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

What was the impact of the printing press invented by Gutenberg?

It allowed mass production of books, spread humanist ideas, and stimulated literacy.

How did the New Monarchies centralize power?

By weakening the nobility and clergy, building standing armies, and creating efficient bureaucracies.

What motivated the Age of Exploration?

The pursuit of 'God, Glory, and Gold'.

Who sponsored voyages of exploration in Portugal?

Prince Henry the Navigator.

What was the Columbian Exchange?

The transfer of crops, animals, and diseases between the Americas and Europe.

What economic system emerged as a result of colonial expansion?

Mercantilism, where colonies existed to benefit the mother country.

What social changes occurred during the Commercial Revolution?

The rise of capitalism and the shift to market-oriented agriculture.

What was the impact of the military revolution on state-building?

It required more taxes to support standing armies.

What was the 'Querelle des Femmes'?

The debate about women's nature and roles during the Renaissance.

Who was Christine de Pizan and what was her significance?

An elite woman who advocated for women's education.