The Renaissance: Art, Humanism, and Scientific Revolution

1. Humanism

• Philosophical and cultural movement
• Emerged in Europe during the 15th and 16th centuries
• Emphasized an anthropocentric viewpoint, reason, experience, and curiosity
• Drew inspiration from Antiquity and promoted the use of modern languages

2. The Spread of Humanism

• Gutenberg's invention of the printing press in 1440 facilitated the spread of knowledge
• Academies served as cultural centers, fostering intellectual exchange
• Universities played a crucial role in promoting classical culture
• Humanist scholars traveled extensively, exchanging ideas and fostering collaboration

3. Science

• Scientists conducted experiments to test and validate their theories
• Astronomy, medicine, and physics emerged as prominent branches of scientific inquiry
• Geographical discoveries led to advancements in cartography, botany, and zoology

4. Renaissance Art

• Focused on the human being as its primary subject
• Drew inspiration from classical Greek and Roman art
• Strove for harmony, proportion, and balance in artistic compositions
• Developed in two main stages: Quattrocento (15th century, Florence) and Cinquecento (16th century, Rome)

5. Patrons and Artists

• Wealthy noblemen and merchants (patrons) played a vital role in supporting artists and their work. Notable patrons included the Medici in Florence, the Sforza in Milan, the Gonzaga in Mantua, and the Popes in Rome.
• Artists gained recognition and were no longer considered anonymous craftsmen. They began signing their works and attained a higher social standing.

6. Architecture

• Encompassed both religious and civil buildings
• Prioritized human needs and functionality
• Emphasized symmetry, proportion, and classical features such as rounded arches, pediments, barrel vaulting, domes, and columns

7. Sculpture

• Inspired by classical forms, sculptures depicted the human body with realism and idealism
• Nude sculptures celebrated the beauty, proportion, and anatomical accuracy of the human form
• Portraits and equestrian statues gained prominence

8. Painting

• Utilized linear perspective to create depth and realism
• Employed chiaroscuro (light and shadow) to depict volume and three-dimensionality
• Subjects included religious scenes infused with human emotion, portraits, landscapes, and classical mythology

9. Renaissance in Spain

• Flourished in the 16th century
• Architecture featured three main styles: Plateresque (abundant decoration), Classicist (harmony and balance), and Herrerian (sobriety and lack of decoration)
• Sculpture primarily focused on religious themes
• El Greco emerged as a prominent painter, known for his distinctive style

10. Reformation and Counter-Reformation