Payton Nese - Study Guide Ren/Ref 2023

Renaissance

A period of European history (1300–1600) when renewed interest in classical culture led to major changes in art, learning, and worldviews.

Humanism

A Renaissance intellectual movement in which thinkers studied classical texts and focused on human potential and achievements.

Secular

Concerned with worldly rather than spiritual matters.

Patron

A person who supports artists, especially financially.

Vernacular

The everyday language of people in a region or country.

Perspective

An artistic technique that creates the appearance of three dimensions on a flat surface.

Indulgence

A document from the Catholic Church that could reduce punishment for sins, sometimes in exchange for money or good deeds.

Reformation

A 16th

Skepticism

A philosophy based on the idea that nothing can be known for certain.

Utopia

An ideal place; an imaginary land described by Thomas More in his book Utopia.

Renaissance in Italy

A rebirth of Greek and Roman culture after the Dark Ages. Advancements in art, wealth, social class, architecture, humanities, and secular views.

Effects of the Printing Press

Preserved Greek and Roman learning, spread knowledge widely, allowed ideas to reach more people.

Leonardo da Vinci

Painter, sculptor, inventor, and scientist; famous works: Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, Virgin of the Rocks. Considered a “Renaissance Man.”

Michelangelo

Sculptor, painter, architect, and poet; famous works: Statue of David, Ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, Dome of St. Peter’s.

Donatello

Sculptor who used realistic postures and expressions; works: Equestrian Statue of Gattamelata, David.

Raphael

Painter who studied Da Vinci and Michelangelo; painted Madonna and Child, School of Athens, Marriage of the Virgin.

Machiavelli

Renaissance humanist and writer of The Prince. Believed rulers should be stern, enforce discipline, and rule effectively even if it went against morals.

Medici Family

Wealthy patrons of the arts in Florence, Italy; funded artists like Da Vinci and Michelangelo.

Martin Luther

Protestant Reformer who believed Christians should follow the Bible, not the Church. Wrote the 95 Theses criticizing indulgences and Church practices.

Medieval Art vs. Renaissance Art

Medieval art was sacred, 2D, neutral in color, focused on biblical subjects, and controlled by the Church. Renaissance art was more secular, colorful, used perspective (3D), and focused on humanism.

Renaissance Man

A person skilled in many areas of study or art. Example: Leonardo da Vinci (painter, sculptor, inventor, scientist).

Patron of the Arts

Wealthy supporters who funded artists to beautify cities. Example: The Medici family in Florence.

School of Athens

A painting by Raphael showing ancient philosophers sharing ideas. Symbolized Renaissance values of classical knowledge and humanism.