The European Age of Renaissance was a period of great transformation and achievement that lasted roughly between the 14th and 16th centuries. This period saw the flourishing of culture and learning, and the origins of modern science, politics, and philosophy. It was a period of major advances in art, literature, and literature and music. The European Renaissance had a huge impact throughout Europe and the world, and is still studied to this day. Here are some key facts about the European Age of Renaissance.
History
The European Age of Renaissance began in the late Middle Ages, when Europe began to recover from the devastation of the Black Death and the Hundred Years War. This period saw a turn away from the feudal system of government that had characterised the medieval period, and the growth of a more centralized, secular state. Italian cities saw a great resurgence at this time, with powerful families and individuals using their wealth to gain political influence and patronage of the arts, while the new merchant classes began to challenge the historically entrenched religious and political authority.
Influence of Humanism
The intellectual movement called Humanism played an important role in the Renaissance. Humanism was based on the idea that human beings were capable of achieving great things, and of improving their lives through study, experimentation and exploration. Humanism was a philosophy that focused on education and the development of the individual, which greatly informed the culture and literature of the age. In the arts, Humanism encouraged a style that moved away from the traditional religious subjects of medieval painting, to explore more secular themes.
Key Intellectuals and Artists
The Renaissance was a great period of cultural and intellectual achievement, with many brilliant thinkers and creators making their mark on the world. In philosophy and theology, Erasmus, Thomas More, and Martin Luther were key figures of the time. In the sciences, Copernicus, Galileo, and Vesalius paved the way for modern science. They were joined by Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo in the arts, who produced some of the most celebrated artwork in history. And the writers of the time, such as Petrarch and Dante, are still read and studied to this day.
Impact on Society
The European Renaissance had a deep and lasting impact on European society. This was a period of great political and economic change, with the emergence of the nation state and the development of systems of banking and credit. It also marked a shift away from the feudal system to a more centralized form of government, and the growth of representative assemblies. Meanwhile, the Humanist movement encouraged the spread of education, literacy, and the public discourse of enlightening ideas.
Legacy
The legacy of the European Renaissance can still be felt in Europe and the wider world. It was a time of great innovation in science, technology, and the arts, and a period of intellectual and social progress. The ideas of Humanism and secularism also still remain central to our understanding of the world. But of course, the works of the great thinkers and creatives of the time still stand as a testament to the achievements of the European Renaissance.
The European Age of Renaissance was a period of great creativity, innovation, and achievement that had a huge impact on Europe and the world. It was a period marked by a new Humanist philosophy and the flourishing of art, literature, and music. It was also a time of great political and economic changes, with the development of the nation state and the emergence of sophisticated banking and credit systems. The legacy of the European Renaissance is still felt today, and its achievements continue to inspire and challenge us to this day.
