The English Renaissance1485-1660

Definition

Literal meaning: rebirth

Marked by surge of creative energy Seen in all areas of culture

Began in Italy in 14th century and spread north Delayed in England due to

political upheaval Took hold during the reign

of Henry VII

Changes from Medieval to Renaissance

Change in view of religion Medieval times: focused on religion and afterlife Renaissance: more interest in life on earth

More focus on individual and human potential Difference in view of ambition

“Renaissance man” What is? Difference between “Renaissance man” and

medieval ideal man

Renaissance Religion

Henry VIII Creation of the

Church of England Why? Protestant church

Thirst for male heir created infamous reputation Six wives, 3 heirs

Only one male

Henry’s Six Wives

Catherine of Aragon Divorced Mother of Mary I

Anne Boleyn Beheaded Mother of Elizabeth I

Jane Seymour Died Mother of Edward VI

Anne of Cleves Divorced/Annulled

Katherine Howard Beheaded Treason

Katherine Parr Survived

Catherine of Aragon

Anne Boleyn Jane Seymour

Anne of Cleves Katherine Howard

Katherine Parr

Renaissance Religion (cont’d)

Edward VI Only male heir to

Henry VIII Succeeded at 9, but

died at 15 Group of radical

Protestants used Edward as power Became known as

Puritans

Renaissance Religion (cont’d)

Mary I Daughter of Catherine of

Aragon and Henry VIII Known as “Bloody Mary”

Superstitious game?

Brought back Roman Catholicism

Intense persecution of Protestant Burnt over 280

Protestants at the stake

Renaissance Religion (cont’d)

Elizabeth I Daughter of Henry VIII and Anne Boleyn Considered the most able ruler England has had Brought back Protestantism, though kept some aspects

of Catholicism Known as the “Virgin Queen”

Never married Controversy of nickname

Cultivated many aspects of culture, allowing for growth in idea of Renaissance Dancing, art, theater

Elizabeth I

Renaissance Culture

Delight in arts, literature, beauty of nature, human impulses, exploration and mastery over world

Think of the Renaissance greats: Shakespeare Galileo Columbus

Great advances in technology Compass, telescope, printing press