Some of Renaissance people- extreme individualism- thought maybe they knew everything.
Michelangelo- sculptor, etc
Leonardo da Vinci
Donatello- Italian sculptor
Had confidence, persistence- today identified with their great works. Developing to full capabilities. Be the “universal man.” — Be all you can be…
Humanism was another characteristic. The revival of it was a revival of classical learning. Fundamental changes in the way education was done. Before, practical skills in law, medicine, or theology. They generally neglected much of what is now considered core. Study of more well rounded subjects began in Renaissance. Studia humanitatus- studies of humans. Liberal arts, have an emphasis on the humanities. The father of Humanism- Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch)- grammar, history, rhetoric, moral philosophy. Said we should study humanities and not the sciences, because the sciences didn’t make people happy in life. Humanist thinking continued to impact education. Some aspects of it were good. Generally- a large room with all range of ability and ages- you got what you could- so systems were made to divide by age and ability. The study of Greek was added, Latin remained major- not just for the priest or lawyer, but for all education people. Primary sources helped. Large change in behavior and demeanor. Upper class Italians have new ideas for polite manners. In addition to good manners, broad background in subjects, compose and sing a song, play instrument, ride a horse, speak and write eloquently…
Diplomacy- advent of modern form at this time. With standing armies- royal revenue needed to support. The lords of the manor fell under the influence of the church. The international arena consisted of a number of free agents who took what they could when they were able.
For all the flaws of Western civ- the church had acted as a restraining influence until this time.
Rise in modern diplomacy.
Internal and external informants needed. States find allies. During this period- “balance of power” begins to be applied. Does not prevent war as much as ensure sovereignty.
Other problems of Renaissance- negatives of individualism- a certain lawlessness and confusion in Italy, from being strongly amoral. Nothing moral or amoral. Individuals think the law does not apply to them.
Marked move- the here and now.
“The Prince” by Machiavelli (statesman and political philosopher).
Augustine and his successors had looked at gov’t and decided the ways it should be run. But Machiavelli said they should be worried about how things are. Some say Machiavelli was amoral- but he just didn’t think people should be concerned over moral considerations.
During Renaissance- Financial problems- last half of 16th century- outrageous inflation. One example in English construction workers. Wages doubled, but so did inflation. The price of bread went up 4 or 5 times, creating a net loss for construction workers. The premise is simple- price paid for goods and services intertwined with supply and demand. Amount of money in circulation is also a factor. Influx of cash in system makes for higher prices (same effect as money that quickly changes hands.)
