The Renaissance by Will Durant ~ The Story of Civilization

Description: Hey there, friend! :wave: Welcome to Rebound Centre, where we're all about giving items a second chance and keeping them out of landfills. Our unique selection of Books items will amaze you, and the best part is, we offer competitive prices you won't find elsewhere! Item Details: The Renaissance by Will Durant ~ The Story of Civilization The Renaissance: A History of Civilization in Italy from 1304 to 1576 AD is the sixth volume in Will Durant's monumental series The Story of Civilization, which he co-wrote with his wife, Ariel Durant. First published in 1953, this book focuses on one of the most transformative periods in Western history—the Italian Renaissance. In his trademark narrative style, Durant explores the intellectual, artistic, political, and cultural shifts that took place in Italy between the 14th and 16th centuries, which laid the foundation for much of modern Western civilization. Condition: Used, Good Condition Description:Key Features and Themes of The Renaissance: The Revival of Classical Antiquity:Durant explores the revival of classical Greek and Roman thought that became a hallmark of the Renaissance. He traces how humanist scholars, artists, and thinkers looked back to the ideals and achievements of ancient Greece and Rome for inspiration. This renewed interest in classical antiquity spurred advances in art, philosophy, literature, and science.He examines the works of key Renaissance figures like Petrarch and Boccaccio, who helped reintroduce classical texts and ideas to Europe, laying the groundwork for the humanist movement. The Rise of Humanism:Central to the Renaissance was the emergence of humanism, an intellectual movement that emphasized human potential, individualism, and secularism. Durant covers how humanists advocated for education in the classics, rhetoric, and grammar, which in turn led to a flourishing of literature and a focus on the dignity of the individual.Humanism played a significant role in shaping the thinking of the period, affecting art, philosophy, politics, and even religion. Art and Architecture:The Renaissance saw an explosion of artistic innovation, and Durant provides detailed accounts of the key figures and works of this period. He discusses the contributions of artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael, Donatello, and Botticelli, who transformed the visual arts with a new focus on realism, perspective, and the human form.Durant also delves into the development of Renaissance architecture, highlighting the works of Brunelleschi, Alberti, and others who reshaped the architecture of Italy, particularly through innovations like the dome of the Florence Cathedral. The Political Landscape:Durant offers a nuanced analysis of the political environment in Italy during the Renaissance. Italy was not a unified country but a collection of city-states, each with its own government and often its own political intrigue.He discusses the role of powerful families like the Medici in Florence, the Sforza in Milan, and the Borgia and Papal States in Rome. These families wielded significant influence in art, culture, and politics, often using patronage to solidify their power.The politics of the Renaissance were also marked by a constant tension between the secular and religious powers, particularly the conflict between the Papacy and the growing influence of secular rulers. The Scientific Revolution:Durant notes the early stirrings of the Scientific Revolution during the Renaissance, with thinkers like Copernicus, Galileo, and Leonardo da Vinci contributing to a shift in the understanding of the natural world. He examines how the Renaissance helped lay the intellectual foundations for later scientific advancements.While not as developed as it would become in the 17th century, Renaissance science marked a transition from medieval scholasticism to the more empirical, observation-based approach that would define modern science. Religion and the Church:Religion played a complex role in Renaissance Italy. On one hand, the Roman Catholic Church was a powerful political and cultural institution that influenced every aspect of life; on the other, the period saw a growing sense of skepticism, individualism, and secularism that began to challenge the authority of the Church.Durant discusses the role of religious figures like Savonarola, who attempted to revive religious piety in Florence, and the corruption and political machinations within the Papacy, including the infamous Pope Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia).The tension between religious orthodoxy and humanist ideals would set the stage for the later Reformation and the challenges to the Catholic Church. The Influence of the Printing Press:The invention of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century revolutionized the dissemination of knowledge. Durant explores how the press facilitated the spread of Renaissance ideas, from humanist texts to scientific discoveries, making them accessible to a wider audience and accelerating the spread of the movement. The Decline of the Renaissance:The book also examines the gradual decline of the Renaissance in Italy, especially as external forces (such as invasions by France and Spain) and internal political struggles weakened the city-states. The sacking of Rome in 1527 by the forces of Charles V and the eventual political unification of Italy under foreign domination marked the end of the period. Cultural and Intellectual Legacy:Durant emphasizes the lasting cultural and intellectual legacy of the Renaissance. The period's achievements in art, literature, science, and philosophy have profoundly shaped Western thought and culture. The ideas of Renaissance thinkers like Machiavelli, Castiglione, and Erasmus would continue to influence political theory, literature, and education for centuries to come.Writing Style and Approach: Will Durant’s writing in The Renaissance is engaging and accessible, blending historical analysis with vivid storytelling. His ability to weave together the lives of major figures, cultural movements, and political events allows readers to understand not just the facts, but the broader significance of the Renaissance as a turning point in Western history. Durant’s broad scholarly approach takes into account the intertwining of intellectual, artistic, political, and social factors, and presents the Renaissance as a complex, multi-faceted phenomenon.Conclusion: The Renaissance is a deeply insightful and comprehensive exploration of one of the most important cultural epochs in human history. Will Durant’s narrative offers readers a detailed and richly textured account of the Italian Renaissance, emphasizing the period’s lasting influence on Western civilization. For students of history, art, and culture, the book remains a valuable resource, providing context, analysis, and vivid portrayals of the figures and events that defined the Renaissance. As part of Durant’s larger The Story of Civilization series, it complements the broader historical narrative of Western culture, making it both an informative and enjoyable read. Shipping Worldwide Shipping: Yes, we ship globally, and we're based in Canada. Combine Shipping: Feel free to bundle multiple items and send us a message for even more savings! Make an Offer: We're open to offers, just send us a message, and let's make a deal. Shipping to Your Area: Even if our listing says we don't ship to your location, don't worry! Reach out, and we'll find a way to get our fantastic finds to you. 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Price: 20 USD

Location: Sweet Grass, Montana

End Time: 2024-11-24T18:54:33.000Z

Shipping Cost: 4.87 USD