Renaissance

The word “renaissance” was first used in a positive sense in 1725 by Italian poet and scholar Giovenale Leopardi.

At some point during the 14th century, Europe’s two most powerful rulers – France’s Philip IV and England’s Edward III – both happened to be sons of Isabella of France. They hatched a scheme to conquer all of Italy, including the Vatican city. It was this unquenchable thirst for glory that helped usher in the Renaissance. The lifeblood of this era wasn’t just art but also a new spirit that encouraged intellectual freedom and creativity-both for sciences and arts alike.

What is Renaissance?

Renaissance, literally meaning rebirth, is the era from which a culture or element of a culture is reborn. It may be defined as the revival of classical humanism introduced by the Renaissance during the 14th century.

The Italian Renaissance is defined by secularism, individualism, and an increased focus on materialism. The over-emphasis placed on the human rather than divine, which was characteristic of the Middle Ages, encouraged people to be more individualistic and self-conscious.

Renaissance is also defined by the rise of the bourgeoisie (wealthy middle class), who gradually gained more power as a result of their wealth and influence. 

Renaissance Period

The Renaissance was a period when the arts and sciences flourished, like music, art and science. These advancements were brought on by the Renaissance period which began in Italy around 1400. The four countries that were involved in the renaissance included France, Italy, Germany and England. There was also a smaller country called Switzerland that was more engaged with the progress of Europe than some of the other countries.

French 

The French were involved in the renaissance because they took the lead in many activities such as exploration. There were also many advances made by the French scientist through their discoveries in navigation and technology.

England 

The English were involved in the renaissance through their exporting of fabrics and wool . By the end of the 15th century, England’s export of cloth to Italy had increased by three times. This led to the rise of the middle class hence they started asking for their rights. 

Germany 

The Germans were involved in the renaissance because they were part of many activities related to it. Some Germans such as Martin Luther and Johannes Gutenberg are widely recognized for their contribution to the Renaissance period.

Italy 

The Italians were involved in the renaissance because they were one of the few countries that had a large population during this time. During the Renaissance period, Italians were instrumental in creating great art and acting as ambassadors to other countries like France and Germany.

Causes of Renaissance

• Humanism

The Renaissance began in Italy with Italian philosopher and statesman Marsilio Ficino (1433-1499), who founded a Platonic Academy at Florence. It was humanism that provided the basis for the new culture of the Renaissance. A focus on humanity characterises humanism as an individual and emphasises emerging in one’s own individual expression and creativity. 

• Commercial Expansion

The economy of the towns and cities increased during the Renaissance. Luxury goods, trade, and banking played important roles in this commercial expansion. The banking system became more secure, which allowed for a stabilised economy..

• Improved Road System

With the rise of commerce and industry came an improved road system. The new roads were well-paved, making it easier to transport goods and creating a larger market area. Increased trade allowed for the expansion of trade routes around Europe.

• Improved Systems for Defence and Military

As people became more wealthy, they wanted to protect their wealth. The result was better weapons, training, fortifications, and other types of defence from enemies. People became aware of the importance of protecting them from outside threats by improving the structures around them and increasing their military training, which helped provide security for themselves, fight off enemies, and seek new business opportunities.

• New Society

With the rise of a new wealthy class, people no longer followed the same rules and traditions of the past. Instead, they chose to follow new codes based on individualism and self-consciousness. These new codes were more liberal as well as being more humane. 

Early Renaissance Education

Early Renaissance was largely illiterate but was not in such dire straits. There were, however, educated men and women all over the place, producing books and manuscripts of various genres. The Pope himself was a great patron of the arts, as his collection of art is now in the Vatican Museums around Rome. While the invention of the printing press was a few years away, men like Aldus Manutius in Venice would print manuscripts and books, which were sold in his company store – a veritable publishing house. The Florentines would also find their literary academy, called the Accademia Della Crusca.

Conclusion

A period when no one achieves anything major, and instead, people become very unproductive and focused on themselves and their world.

The Renaissance ended when artists and people realised that humanism is not what’s important and effort in other spheres of human achievement became more productive.

The Renaissance expanded to France and gradually to the other parts of western and northern Europe. The region’s stability was essential for the rise of commerce, which relied upon political stability and a strong infrastructure (road system).