histoy G-10 E

city of Florence in Italy is a good example for a
rich family who supported the artistic affairs.

 Intellectual Revival

After the decline of the Roman civilization,
subjects like Theology, Philosophy, and Law
were the main subjects in the education system
centred in the religious institutions. But, since
new subjects such as Ancient Literature, dramas,
Phonetics and History were taught in the new
educational centres which started after the 12th
century, there was a new group of scholars by
the time of Renaissance. Another reason that
caused the intellectual revival of the Europeans
was the printing industry. After the invention
of the printing machine by Gutenberg in 1454,
printing shops were started in a number of areas
in Italy. Therefore printed books were abundant
and much interest grew in Greek and Roman
literature and drama.

■ Criticism of the Domination of the Church

By the mediaeval era, both the Pope and the

church had a great power. Therefore, the religion

had affected many aspects of human life to a great

extent. Some of the priests in the Catholic council

had tended to a more worldly life. As a result

of the revival of thinking in the Renaissance,

some weaknesses in the Catholic council were

criticized. John Wyklip in England, John Huss in

Bohemia, Irasmus in France and Martin Luther

in Germany were prominent among such critics.

How the Renaissance Transformed Europe

The Renaissance affected much to transform the

course of Europe. It transformed every section

such as academic, political, economic and

scientific.

Fig 9.1 A drawing, which displays two divine children, painted in the Sistine church by Michael Angelo.