Introduction to a new series about the European Renaissance.
After wrestling with several potential ideas for articles, I have finally decided that my next series will be about the Renaissance. The term “Renaissance”means rebirth. In the context of the European Renaissance, it refers to a rebirth of learning, art, philosophy, technological advancements, and a renewed interest in the cultures of Ancient Greece and Ancient Rome (the birth of western civilization).
I have no idea why it took me so long to come to a decision on this subject. As student, a teacher, and a history buff, the Renaissance is one of my favorite periods in European History. Almost all my favorite books take place in the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries. I am obsessed by the fashions of the time, The Queen of Scots and her French connections, and strangely enough, Renaissance personal hygiene (contrary to popular belief, people back then didn’t smell that bad). Why I didn’t think of writing about the Renaissance sooner is beyond me.
The first article in this series will be a brief overview of what the Renaissance is, and how it affected the societies of Europe from 1300-1600 CE. Other articles will discuss the early Renaissance in Italy, Humanism, Machiavelli, changes in Art, the printing press, and the Northern Renaissance. I will also be making the ever important connection between the Renaissance and the Protestant Reformation, led by Martin Luther. I will be posting a discussion question and poll, as well, for reader feedback. What areas of the Renaissance you would like to know more about?
