🎨 The Renaissance

A New Dawn in Europe

The Renaissance is a period from about 1300–1600 when European culture changes dramatically.

• Begins in Italian cities like Florence
• Spreads across Europe
• Focus on human potential and creativity

It follows the Middle Ages and connects to the modern world.

Key idea: People look back to ancient Greece and Rome for inspiration, but use new methods and perspectives.

Why It Starts in Italy 🇮🇹

Several factors help Italy lead the Renaissance:

• Rich trade cities (Florence, Venice) fund artists
• Powerful banking families, like the Medici
• Ruins and texts of ancient Rome nearby
• Competition between city-states encourages innovation

Together, money, politics, and history create a perfect environment for cultural rebirth.

Humanism: A New Way of Thinking

Humanism focuses on humans rather than only on religion.

Humanists:

• Study grammar, history, poetry, and philosophy
• Read Greek and Roman authors
• Believe humans can shape their own futures

This does not reject Christianity, but adds strong interest in everyday life and individual achievement.

Medieval vs. Renaissance Mindsets

Medieval focus:

• Salvation and the afterlife
• Feudal duties and obedience

Renaissance focus:

• Human talent and fame
• Curiosity, discovery, and innovation

> People still believe in God, but they also celebrate what humans can do on Earth.