51-2219HN The Italian Renaissance: Honors

This is an interdisciplinary humanities class in the Italian Renaissance, a period of time that marked a shift in sensibilities in which human values in all fields were reborn and reaffirmed amidst political and religious crises. A new self-awareness, the return to humane letters and to classical antiquity created an outburst of creativity. During a time of rapid change, mankind discovered a capacity to improve, to change the world, to grow, learn and to create. We will examine how artists, bankers, diplomats, courtiers, princes, philosophers, merchants, patrons and religious leaders responded to these new values through which they affirmed their individualism, often through many-sided achievements, to wit, Michalangelo ( sculptor, painter, poet) DaVinci (painter, scientist, inventor) Alberti (painter, architect, humanist) the Medici (bankers, poets, patrons). This class integrates readings in literature, art history, history, philosophy and political science. Through readings, lectures, images and class discussions we will study how political, religious and historical events contributed to the artistic achievements of the Italian Renaissance and its lasting impact in today’s world. This is an Honors class. In addition to other possible pre-requisites, students need a minimum G.P.A. of 3.50 or higher to enroll.

3 Credits
GA HU
Requirements 3.5 or Higher GPA