A Comparison of The Renaissance and Baroque Periods

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Since the first prehistoric cave painting, and perhaps much before that, the human race has always used art as a form of expression. With the passing of each historical period came new technologies and techniques and were all influenced by the unique style, characteristics, and social conditions of those periods. Even though, each period discovered new forms and unique styles of art most historical periods were influenced by an earlier period of history. In this essay, I will explore the relationship, style, and influences of the Renaissance and Baroque periods and will also compare and contrast a work of art from both periods to further explain the relationship between the two eras. The Renaissance period started in Italy and took place between the 1400’s and the 1600’s. In French, the term Renaissance means rebirth, which is an accurate way to describe that period since it was then that many people chose to break away from the stagnation, incertitude, and extreme hardships that occurred during the Middle Ages and plagued most of Europe. The Renaissance period is noted for being a time when the population sought educational reform which increased literacy and many were able to master more than one skill set. This led to an intellectual, economic, and artistic revolution that transformed several European nations such as Italy, France, Spain, and several others. During this time, there were several developments within the Catholic Church, such as scandals and controversy. Because of that, many people were driven away from the traditions of the church and sought more freedom of expression and individualism. As economies improved, there was more wealth and a desire for self improvement which greatly influenced the arts. While... ... middle of paper ... ...nce of the many pieces of art, this period raised the bar for detailed artwork. Through its passionate and ornate styles it influenced the Rococo period and other eras to produce even more extravagant and opulent art. Due to its popularity, it was adopted internationally and had many variations of styles. There were many great artists, such as Rubens, Caravaggio, Bernini, Rembrandt, Velazquez, Vermeer, Bach, Vivaldi and many others that used their art as a way of raising social consciousness, exploited, and delighted the senses. The impact that the Baroque period had on architecture can be admired today by visiting the Elector's Palace in Trier, Germany, the Santa Susanna in Rome, Italy, the Saints Peter and Paul Church in Krakow, Poland, and St. Peter and St. Paul’s Church in Vilnius, Lithuania, the Trevi Fountain in Rome, the Palace of Versailles, in France.

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