What Are The Causes of The Renaissance?
http://europeanhistory.about.com/od/therenaissance/a/causesrenaissance.htm
@kicks - O.o
@ Ms. Sue - Was hoping you gave me the answer but this would work i guess
The Renaissance, which spanned from the 14th to the 17th centuries, was a period of significant cultural and intellectual transformation in Europe. It marked a shift from the medieval worldview to a focus on humanism, science, and artistic expression. There were several key factors that contributed to the emergence of the Renaissance:
1. Rediscovery of Ancient Greek and Roman Knowledge: The scholars of the Renaissance were fascinated by the literature, philosophy, and art of ancient Greece and Rome. The recovery and translation of classical texts, such as those of Plato and Aristotle, inspired new ways of thinking and sparked innovation across various fields.
To explore the rediscovery of ancient Greek and Roman texts, you can start by researching prominent figures of the Renaissance, such as Petrarch and Poggio Bracciolini, who played key roles in collecting and translating manuscripts. Examining the works of humanist scholars and their contributions to the revival of ancient knowledge will provide further context.
2. Trade and Economic Growth: The expansion of trade routes and increased wealth through commerce played a vital role in fostering the Renaissance. Italian city-states, such as Florence and Venice, thrived as centers of trade, accumulating substantial wealth. This prosperity allowed for the patronage of artists and intellectuals, encouraging innovation and artistic expression.
To explore the impact of trade and economic growth, researching the rise of city-states like Florence and the Medici family, who were prominent patrons of the arts, will provide valuable insights.
3. The Printing Press: The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century revolutionized the spread of knowledge. With the increased accessibility of books, ideas, and information became more widely available. This dissemination of knowledge helped to fuel intellectual curiosity and creativity during the Renaissance.
To learn more about the impact of the printing press, you can examine Gutenberg's invention and its transformational effects on education, literature, and the exchange of ideas.
4. Religious and Political Changes: The Renaissance coincided with a period of religious and political reform. The Protestant Reformation, led by figures such as Martin Luther, challenged the authority of the Catholic Church and led to the establishment of new Christian denominations. These shifts in religious and political power structures provided fertile ground for new ideas to flourish.
To understand the religious and political changes of the Renaissance, researching key figures like Martin Luther, John Calvin, and the political dynamics in Europe during that time will offer insights into how these shifts influenced the intellectual climate.
By exploring these causes, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of the factors that contributed to the Renaissance and the significant impact it had on European civilization.