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Studied by 17339 peopleNoteStudied by 7 peopleNoteStudied by 161 peopleNoteStudied by 9 peopleNoteStudied by 24 peopleNoteStudied by 60 peoplejkk
Definition
The Renaissance was a cultural, artistic, and intellectual revival that began in Italy in the late 14th century and spread throughout Europe. It marked the transition from the Middle Ages to modernity, characterized by a renewed interest in ancient Greek and Roman culture. Innovations in various fields, including science and philosophy, also flourished during this period.Key Characteristics
Focus on humanism: Emphasis on the study of classical texts from Ancient Greece and Rome, encouraging a shift towards human-centered subjects rather than exclusively religious themes. Humanists sought to understand human nature and individual potential.
Advances in art: Artists utilized techniques such as perspective to create depth and realism in their work, chiaroscuro to manipulate light and shadow for dramatic effect, and emphasized realistic human figures, which led to more lifelike representations in paintings and sculptures.
Innovations in literature: The development of vernacular languages allowed literature to reach broader audiences beyond the educated elite who could read Latin. Writers explored ideas of individualism and personal experience in their works, reflecting the values of the Renaissance.
Important Figures
Leonardo da Vinci: A polymath known for his contributions to various fields, including painting, sculpture, and anatomy. His masterpieces like the "Mona Lisa" and "The Last Supper" remain iconic examples of Renaissance art.
Michelangelo: A master sculptor and painter acclaimed for his ability to convey human emotion and grandeur. His works, including the marble sculpture of David and the frescoes on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, are considered masterpieces of Western art.
Erasmus: A Dutch humanist and theologian whose critiques of the church's practices championed education, moral reform, and the study of the Bible in vernacular languages, emphasizing a return to the original texts of Christianity.
Definition
The Reformation was a religious movement in the 16th century aimed at reforming the practices and beliefs of the Roman Catholic Church, leading to the establishment of Protestantism. It was driven by calls for reform in response to perceived corruptions in the Church and emphasized a return to Biblical fundamentals.Key Figures
Martin Luther: A German monk and theologian who sparked the Reformation by posting his Ninety-Five Theses in 1517, which challenged the Church's sale of indulgences and called for reform in church practices. His ideas laid the foundation for the Lutheran tradition.
John Calvin: A French theologian whose teachings emphasized the sovereignty of God, predestination, and a disciplined moral life. His work in Geneva transformed it into a center for Protestantism and Calvinism spread throughout Europe.
Henry VIII: The King of England who, seeking to annul his marriage, broke away from the Catholic Church and established the Church of England. His actions initiated significant religious, political, and social changes in England.
Major Themes
Justification by faith: The doctrine that faith alone, rather than good works, is sufficient for salvation—a fundamental belief of Protestantism.
The authority of Scripture: The principle that the Bible is the sole authority for Christians, serving as the ultimate guide for faith and practice, contrary to the Church's traditions and teachings.
The priesthood of all believers: The belief that individuals have direct access to God without the need for priests as intermediaries, promoting a more personal and individual faith experience.
NoteStudied by 17339 peopleNoteStudied by 7 peopleNoteStudied by 161 peopleNoteStudied by 9 peopleNoteStudied by 24 peopleNoteStudied by 60 people