Article of the WeekRenaissance and Reformation

Renaissance and Reformation

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Renaissance
The period in Europe between 1350 and 1500 is known as the Renaissance. The Renaissance marked a rebirth in interest in the arts, learning, and culture. The Renaissance began in northern Italy and then spread to the rest of Europe. During this time, artist such as Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, created magnificent works of painting and sculpture. Leonardo da Vinci created one of the most famous paintings in history-The Last Supper. Leonardo da Vinci was also very talented in math and science. Michelangelo was also a famous painter. Michelangelos most famous work was the painting on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. Using a scaffold and lying on his back, Michelangelo took four years to finish the ceiling painting. They were supported by wealthy merchants and the Catholic Church.

Reformation

The Reformation which began in 1517 was a time when reformers began to question the power of the Roman Catholic Church. The Roman Catholic Church is the name for the Christian organization that is headed by the pope. You may recall that during the Middle Ages, the Church was extremely powerful. For example, Charlemagne was crowned by the pope. A German monk named Martin Luther began to question some new Church practices. For example, as a new way of raising money, the Church began to sell indulgences. Indulgences were pardons from the pope for certain mistakes. Luther did not believe that people could buy their way into Heaven. Instead, he thought that each person must be faithful to deserve happiness after death. Many began to believe as he did and began to form new churches. Answer the following questions. Question What was the Renaissance? Answer

When did it begin and end? Who were some famous artists of this time? Who painted The Last Supper? Who painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel? What was the Reformation? When did the Reformation begin? Why did the Reformation begin? Who was the leader of the Reformation?

What is an indulgence?