The document summarizes the key characteristics and events of the Italian Renaissance between 1375-1600 CE. It describes the Renaissance as a period of cultural rebirth and achievements that began in Italy and spread throughout Europe. The main characteristics discussed are: 1) Secularism and the emergence of a more secular urban society, 2) The development of humanism and emphasis on classical antiquity in education, 3) A new emphasis on individualism and what individuals could achieve, and 4) The growth of skepticism that questioned traditions and led to reforms. It also provides examples of prominent city-states like Milan, Venice, and Florence during this period.

1. The Italian Renaissance

2. Bell Ringer The word “Renaissance” means: Flowering Genius Eruption New day Rebirth

3. Defining the Renaissance Renaissance = “rebirth” 1375-1600 Italian Renaissance - the period of great cultural change and achievement in European history that began in Italy and spread to the rest of Europe

4. Characteristics of the Renaissance Secularism Renaissance Italy - mostly an urban society Powerful city-states became centers of Italian political, economic & social life Result - an emergence of secular , or worldly, society as increased wealth created new enjoyment of material things Map pg 285

5. Characteristics (cont.) 2. Humanism cultural and educational reform, engaged in by scholars, writers, and civic leaders Studia Humanitatis - s tudied grammar rhetoric, poetry, moral philosophy & history (the humanities )

6. Humanism (cont.) Petrarch - Father of Italian Renaissance humanism Stressed: Intellect Civic involvement

7. Humanism (cont.) Revival of Classicism/Greek & Roman Antiquity Educational reforms guided by ideals of useful education & becoming a well-rounded person Florentine “ Academy ” ( La Academia) —not a formal school, but gathering of influential Florentine humanists devoted to reviving Plato & the Neoplatonists

8. Characteristics (cont.) 3. Individualism Emphasis on individual ability High regard for human worth Realization of what individuals could achieve Outward expression – artists signed work for first time

9. Characteristics (cont.) 4. Skepticism Renaissance Era – also the beginning of the Scientific Revolution Question everything! Begins w/ arts Then gov’t Then Church (eventually leads to Reformation)

10. Renaissance Geo-Political Life Italian City-States No central, unified monarchical state Lack of single strong ruler - easy for C-S to remain independent Milan Venice expanded & played critical Florence roles in Italian politics Papal States Naples Prospered in terms of trade (merchant oligarchies = powerful)

11. Milan (Milano) Visconti Family - dukes of Milan/ Lombardi Viscontis died off - Sforzas conquered Sforza - Efficient tax system = large state revenues hired mercenaries ( soldiers who sold their services) Pair & Share: What would be 1 advantage & 1 disadvantage of hiring mercenaries?

13. Venice (Venezia) Link btwn. Asia & W. Europe = profitable trade empire & international power Officially a republic w/ elected leader Realistically run by small group of wealthy merchant aristocrats who ran gov’t for own benefit

15. Florence (Firenze) Powerhouse of Tuscany de Medici Family Bankers (“God’s Bankers”) Used power, wealth, & personal influence to make Florence the cultural center of Italy Birthplace of the Renaissance

20. Closure With a partner, name and explain the 4 characteristics of the Renaissance. 2 minutes