Western History 80: What was the Renaissance?

The Renaissance (or rebirth/revival) was a period in European history that spans the time between the 14^th and 17^th century. It follows on from the end of the Middle Ages and is often regarded as the first stage in Modern history. As a movement the Renaissance largely began in Italy (particularly Tuscany) from where it spread to the rest of the continent. The period as a whole is known for a passionate renewal on the legacy of Classical Greece that in turn would cultivate a vital stimulus in philosophy, art, literature and science.

Key factors that impacted the Renaissance were

·         Rebirth in learning driven by such figures as the Italian Poet Petrarch in the Fourteenth century – fondness for classical works;

·         Introduction of classical texts brought to Europe by merchants following the Fall of Constantinople (1453);

·         Development of the Printing Press by the German Johannes Gutenberg (1440);

·         Patronage of the Arts by such families as the de Medici and Sforza;

·         Survivors of the Black Plague enjoyed more wealth as workers as a consequence of a short of labour - this would have a ripple effect across the economy;

·         The political dynamic and the vibrancy of several of the Italian city states;

·         Rise of Humanism and a more evident meritocracy in government bureaucracies;

·         The Scientific Revolution – the collapse of geo-centrism and the rise of both empiricism and inductive reasoning as methodologies for understanding the world.