AP European History (Chapter 12 - Vocab)

Renaissance

A period of cultural and intellectual revival in Europe that began in Italy during the 1300s and later spread throughout Europe.

patronage

Financial support given by wealthy individuals or families to artists, writers, and scholars.

communes

Self-governing cities in medieval Italy that gained independence from feudal lords and developed their own governments.

Popolo

Ordinary working and middle-class people in Italian cities who challenged the political power of wealthy elites.

signori

Powerful rulers who took control of Italian city-states, often replacing republican governments with personal rule.

courts

Centers where Renaissance rulers gathered artists, writers, scholars, and other educated people. They helped spread Renaissance culture and ideas.

humanism

An intellectual movement that emphasized human potential, education, and the study of classical Greek and Roman texts.

virtu

A Renaissance idea meaning a person's ability, skill, confidence, and determination to achieve success, especially in politics and leadership.

Christian humanists

Humanist who combined classical learning with Christian beliefs. They wanted to use education and reason to improve Christianity and society.

debate about women

A Renaissance discussion about women's abilities, education, and roles in society. Some writers argued that women were capable of education and intellectual achievement.

New Christians

Jews and Muslims in Spain who converted to Christianity, often because of pressure or persecution.