Renaissance & Early Renaissance Notes

Introduction to the Renaissance

The Renaissance marks a transition to modern thought and society, a rebirth from the Dark Ages and the plague, with a move toward secularity. It began in Italy and then spread to Europe, reviving classical texts and philosophies that the Middle Ages had undervalued.

Stages of the Renaissance

There are three distinct stages: Early Renaissance: 1400-1450; Middle Renaissance: 1450-1520; Late/High Renaissance: 1520-1600. The movement started in Italy and then spread to other parts of Europe.

Origins and Italy

Italy consisted of city-states rather than a unified nation. Florence, Milan, and Venice each had their own governments; the Florentine Republic became a focal point, fostering a climate of civic pride, competition, and patronage.

Humanism

Humanism placed humans and human achievement at the center of thought, reviving ancient Greek philosophy. The idea that “man is the measure of things” framed humans as rational beings capable of dignity, intellectual excellence, and ethical standards.

Early Renaissance in Florence

Florence led the Early Renaissance within a republican framework that limited noble power and restricted voting to a segment of the population. Wealth came from middle-class merchants, influential families (e.g., the Medici), and powerful guilds; these groups funded art and learning.

Florence as a Republic and Patronage

Florence prized civic participation and perceived freedom, creating conditions in which commissions and public pride supported innovation in art and culture.

Patronage and the Medici

A new standard of patronage emerged outside the church or monarchy. The Medici family were key patrons, spurring bold narratives and supporting artists to transform the visual culture of the city.

Artistic Innovation

Renaissance art advanced through techniques such as linear perspective, foreshortening, naturalistic and anatomical precision, chiaroscuro, and trompe l’œil.

Developments in Ideas

Classical texts and mathematics became more accessible. The invention of movable type printing in the 15th century allowed broad dissemination of ideas, and books were written for a wider public. There was renewed interest in classical history, literature, and mythology alongside Christian subjects, with efforts to reconcile Plato’s philosophy with Christianity.

New Subject Matter in Art

Art expanded beyond traditional religious subjects to include battle scenes, portraits, and depictions of ordinary people. Art became a record of contemporary life as well as devotion.

Patronage in the Arts

A distinct patronage culture arose, separate from church or monarchy, with patrons funding artists to express new narratives and serve a community that valued the arts.

Medieval Art

Medieval art focused on religious themes and devotional purpose, often using stylized forms. It serves as a contrast to Renaissance innovations, highlighting different stylistic techniques and priorities.

Examples from the Period

Discussions of medieval art include Ambrogio Lorenzetti’s Presentation at the Temple (1342) and the Ghent Altarpiece, which illustrate late medieval stylistic traits and narrative approaches.

Closing

Thank you for reviewing these core concepts.