Renaissanceliterally, “rebirth”文艺复兴字面上“再生育”.pptVIP

Early Renaissance Literally, “re-birth” 1400-1494 Renaissance values emerge in different places at different times. Renaissance Culture “Rebirth”: Implies some “dead” cultural element is “reborn” Classical learning Humanism and humanistic values Scientific method Classical forms of literature (epic poetry) Public theatre (secular comedy and tragedy) Classical forms of sculpture Classical orders of architecture Renaissance Culture But if some Classical elements were “reborn,” other aspects of medieval culture doubtless continued into the Renaissance Christianity Social class hierarchy Patriarchal values Renaissance or  “Early Modern”? Scholarly debate over whether the period is characterized by a re-birth of ancient values, or by the appearance of modern values. Rise of the nation-state Rise of early capitalism Rise of the rule of law Rise of a paid military Rise of secularism Renaissance Literature Baldassare Castiglione (1478-1529) The Courtier (1528) Niccolo Machiavelli (1469-1527) The Prince (1513) Castiglione, The Courtier a guide to courteous behavior or “conduct book” for the upper classes composed as a set of after-dinner conversations between ladies and gentleman a continuing debate over the traits that define the ideal courtier and lady Castiglione, The Courtier The gentleman: education in the arts and humanities skill in horsemanship and swordplay. a man of letters proficient in music, drawing and dance. ready for war / athletics Castiglione, The Courtier The Lady: a civilizing influence consummate hostess charming, witty, graceful physically attractive, utterly feminine well versed in the same areas as men, except for athletics and arms --p. 323 Castiglione, The Courtier Question: What’s missing from these lists of attributes of the ideal gentleman and lady? status as faithful Christians Is Christianity assumed? Yes, somewhat; but no longer a central item of emphasis. Castiglione, The Courtier Question: Who is