Renaissance Humanism: Origins, Impacts, and Key Figures

Humanism

Humanism is a mindset that originated in Italy during the fifteenth century.

Characteristics

• The focus shifts to humankind, emphasizing human potential and achievements.
• Inspiration from Greco-Latin culture, leading to a rebirth (Renaissance) and the use of mythology.
• Interest in science and technology.
• Use of vernacular languages (Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, etc.).

The Printing Press

In the fifteenth century, Gutenberg's invention of the printing press revolutionized the dissemination of ideas. It facilitated the spread of humanist thought, making books more accessible and transforming typography.

Religious Reform: Lutheranism

Widespread discontent with the corrupt practices of the Church led to calls for reform. Erasmus of Rotterdam voiced his complaints, and Martin Luther proposed a new understanding of religion, emphasizing:

• Salvation through faith.
• Universal priesthood.
• Free interpretation of the Bible.

Protestantism

• Calvinism: A more radical form, emphasizing predestination.
• Anglicanism: Salvation through faith.

Counter-Reformation and Patronage

Courtiers: Warriors who were educated, refined, literate in Greek and Latin, and knowledgeable in music and poetry.

Patrons: Powerful individuals who protected and financed the works of artists.

A New Conception of Religious Art

Key features:

• Revival of Greco-Latin culture and secular themes inspired by mythology.
• The human being as the ideal of beauty (human anatomy), often depicted in portraits surrounded by nature.
• Use of perspective to create depth and realism.

The Quattrocento

• Simple, well-defined spaces.
• Arched pediments.
• Focus on the human body.
• Use of perspective.

The Cinquecento

• Emphasis on the expression of feelings.
• Notable works include:
  • The Basilica of St. Peter (Michelangelo)
  • David (Michelangelo)
  • Mona Lisa (Leonardo da Vinci)
  • Madonnas (Raphael)

Erasmus of Rotterdam

Desiderius Erasmus of Rotterdam was a prominent humanist of the Renaissance. His elegant and insightful writings gave rise to the Eramista movement, which aimed to create a humanist society.