Unit 11

Our final unit brings us not to a place, but to an era of time.  In Unit 11, we will explore the Renaissance, from its beginnings in the Italian city-state of Florence, to its spread throughout the countries of Western Europe.  We will learn how the events of the late Middle Ages, namely the Crusades, helped spark  trade again in the European continent, bringing about a new demand for art and scientific knowledge.   We examine the famous works of many talented artists, such as Michelangelo, da Vinci, and Raphael.   We will also study the contributions of scientists, such as Galileo and Copernicus.  We call this time period the Renaissance because that word means rebirth.  Like during the time of the Ancient Roman Empire, the Italian Peninsula was once again the center of economic, political, and social power in the Eastern Hemisphere.

Unit 11 Guiding Questions

• • How did the Crusades help facilitate the rebirth trade in Europe?

  • Why did the Renaissance begin in the Italian city-states?

  • How did the newly-created merchant middle class help to start the Renaissance?

  • What were the key components of humanism, the Renaissance way of thinking?

  • What were some notable works of art created during this time?

  • What were some scientific achievements that were discovered during the Renaissance?

  • How did the focus of the Renaissance change as it spread throughout Europe?

  • How was the Christian Church affected by the Renaissance?

Assessments in this unit:

• • Unit 11 Test

  • Homework 

  • Quizzes

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