A New Dawn: Renaissance & Reformation
The Renaissance and Reformation examines the cultural rebirth in Europe from the 14th to 17th centuries and the religious upheaval that split Western Christianity during the 16th century. The Renaissance sparked advancements in art, science, and humanism, while the Reformation challenged Catholic authority, leading to Protestantism and reshaping religious, political, and cultural landscapes across Europe.
Timeline of Renaissance & Reformation
This section outlines the key phases of the Renaissance and Reformation. Here’s the breakdown:
- Early Renaissance (1300s-1400s): Revival of classical learning and artistic innovation in Europe.
- High Renaissance (1490s-1520s): Peak of artistic and intellectual achievements.
- Reformation Begins (1517-1540s): Challenges to the Catholic Church and the rise of Protestantism.
- Counter-Reformation and Legacy (1540s-1600s): Catholic response and lasting impacts of both movements.
Key Figures and Events
This section highlights the main individuals and pivotal moments that shaped this era:
- Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519): Renaissance polymath, painted the Mona Lisa and sketched inventions.
- Printing Press (c. 1440): Johannes Gutenberg’s invention spread knowledge and Reformation ideas.
- Michelangelo (1475-1564): Sculpted the David and painted the Sistine Chapel ceiling.
- Martin Luther (1517): Posted the 95 Theses, sparking the Protestant Reformation.
- 95 Theses (1517): Luther’s critique of Catholic indulgences, launching the Reformation.
- Council of Trent (1545-1563): Catholic Church’s response, reforming practices to counter Protestantism.
Examples of Renaissance & Reformation
Early Renaissance (1300s-1400s) Examples
- Petrarch, a 14th-century scholar, rediscovered classical texts, promoting humanism.
- The Medici family in Florence funded artists, fostering a cultural hub.
- Brunelleschi’s dome for the Florence Cathedral (1436) showcased architectural innovation.
High Renaissance (1490s-1520s) Examples
- Raphael’s School of Athens (1511) depicted classical philosophers in a grand fresco.
- The invention of linear perspective revolutionized art, creating realistic depth.
- Machiavelli’s The Prince (1513) offered pragmatic political advice, reflecting humanist thought.
Reformation Begins (1517-1540s) Examples
- John Calvin in Geneva developed Calvinism, emphasizing predestination in the 1530s.
- The Diet of Worms in 1521 saw Luther declared a heretic by the Catholic Church.
- Henry VIII broke with Rome in 1534, creating the Church of England over divorce issues.
Counter-Reformation and Legacy (1540s-1600s) Examples
- The Jesuit Order, founded in 1540, spread Catholic teachings and education globally.
- The Peace of Augsburg (1555) allowed German princes to choose Catholicism or Lutheranism.
- Renaissance humanism influenced modern education, while the Reformation led to religious pluralism.