Chapter 12 informs readers all about the renaissance movement. This word, renaissance, comes from the French word "rebirth ". This word started being used in the 19th century to describe the artistic, intellectual, and cultural movement which sought to recover and imitate the heritage of the classical past. The word renaissance is usually taken literally. According to the book, any discussion of "the Renaissance " has to be qualified, meaning that there was not a single set of ideals during this time- but then again, is there ever really one specific set?- and that they were constantly changing and being determined by political, social, and economic realities. A few countries could think about rebirthing their ideals. It might actually help us out a little, or maybe not. .
Artists and thinkers during the renaissance were all very different in the way they approached and achieved their ideas, as well as their attitudes about things. Being different is a good thing though, it allows more room for bigger change and possibly even better ideas. But the world today looks down upon being "different ". These artists and thinkers were very familiar with classical writings and ideas. In some ways they were able to use them for their own benefit. They hd structural similarities between the ancient Greek poleis and city-states of Italy. This encouraged them to use these ancient forms of governments as a model for their own. Although having examples are goof, and can helpful when starting something new, I believe it is important to have more originality if at all possible. Take an idea and work out it until it's close to flawless. The drive to create a similar government leaked into the way they did their artwork as well as their architect.
The author states that the Renaissance was incredibly materialistic and commercialized. Much like today. Everyone has to make sure that their idea or their product is all over the place for advertisement.