The Middle Ages v.
The Renaissance
Classical TextsMIDDLE AGES:
Scholars tried to make classical texts agree with Christianity
RENAISSANCE:
Humanists studied classical texts to understand ancient Greek and Roman values
Piety (devotion to God)MIDDLE AGES:
People proved piety by living simply, wearing rough clothing, and eating plain foods
RENAISSANCE:
It was acceptable for people to enjoy material things and luxuries without offending God
Art
MIDDLE AGES:
Focused on religious subjects and spiritual ideals; more simplistic and 2-dimensional
ArtRENAISSANCE:
Emphasized realism, the human body, individuals, Greek & Romans, and religious themes
Painting TechniquesMIDDLE AGES:
Mostly 2-dimensional
RENAISSANCE:
Perspective- gave 3-dimensional appearance
Shadows & light to make
paintings more realistic
LiteratureMIDDLE AGES
Most books were written in classical Latin
Common topics included religion and chivalry
RENAISSANCE
More books written in vernacular (native language)
Self-expression
Individualism