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