The Renaissance: Humanism, Art, and Scientific Revolution

The Rise of Humanism and New Discoveries

The Humanist Movement

Humanists were inspired by the literature, philosophy, and art of antiquity. Humanism defended the search for truth through reason and experience. Humanists were curious about everything.

The Printing Press Revolution

In 1440, Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press. Books no longer had to be copied by hand. They became cheaper, and so more were sold. As a result, humanist thought reached more people.

A New View of the Universe

In the 16th century, Nicolaus Copernicus developed the heliocentric theory. This maintained that the Sun was the centre of the universe and that the Earth and other planets revolved around it. This contrasted with the geocentric theory, which maintained that the Earth was the centre of the universe.

Italian Renaissance Art and Its Masters

Artistic Periods in Italy

The Quattrocento was the term applied to 15th-century Italian art, which flourished in Florence.

The Cinquecento was the term used to describe 16th-century art, which flourished in Rome.

Key Renaissance Artists

• Leonardo da Vinci: Brilliantly represented nature and was a master of sfumato.
• Michelangelo Buonarroti: One of the greatest and most versatile artists of all time, he produced great works as a painter, architect, and sculptor. He painted the frescoes in the Sistine Chapel in Rome, creating scenes full of movement and expression.
• Raphael: Achieved perfection in his use of colour, drawing, and composition.
• Titian: As a Venetian painter, he created highly colourful works of art.

Architectural Styles of the Renaissance

Revival of Classical Elements

Renaissance architects revived classical elements such as semi-circular arches and classical columns belonging to the Doric, Ionic, and Corinthian orders. This style became so popular that it completely replaced Gothic architecture. Renaissance painters used colour, composition, and background scenes, such as buildings and landscapes, to create an impression of space and depth.

Spanish Renaissance Architecture

The Herrerian style was characterised by austerity and solemnity. The best example is the Monastery of San Lorenzo de El Escorial, designed by Juan de Herrera.

The Plateresque style was characterised by its abundant and delicate ornamentation. The facade of the University of Salamanca is a fine example.

Religious Reformation and Change

New Religious Movements

New religious movements appeared all over Europe. One of the most influential was Calvinism, founded by John Calvin.

The Catholic Counter-Reformation

The Counter-Reformation was a reform movement within the Catholic Church. Its goal was to stop the Protestant movement and improve conditions in the Church.