Political changes in Europe due to the Rennaissance - Essay Example

Renaissance period (1450-1650) had sprung from Italy and had rapidly spread to other parts of Europe. It has been characterized by resurgence of art and culture that was hugely patronized by the political powers of that time. Some of the greatest painters, artists, scholars and scientists like Michelangelo, Leonardo da Vinci, Bottieli, Raphael, Copernicus Galileo etc had graced this era with their landmark work in the specified area. Europe’s political scenario also underwent tremendous transformation during the period with revolutionary ideas that prompted the power to separate from the Roman Catholic Church which was the single uniting factor of the time.

The individual fame and development of trade and commerce became the main force that changed the political thinking and consequently the political history of Europe. Renaissance period is also known for consolidation of political power through the increased trade and commerce activities and consolidation. ‘Renaissance had brought an end for the most part to feudalism, the medieval form of political organization’ (Renaissance). The various Italian cities went for self rule and Monarchies also consolidated their position and political power through matrimonial alliances.

Eminent diplomat and writer Leonardo Bruni believed in the representative form of government that was inclined towards the welfare of the society and encouraged patriotism. The period saw dramatic changes in the political, social and cultural environment of Europe that was based on scientific and cultural interpretation rather than religious orthodoxy. Discovery of new land by Vasco de Gama and Columbus greatly helped in the expansion of European power across the globe. England, France, Portugal, Italy and Germany all tried to establish their rule in far flung places like Africa, Asia and New America.

The tradition of owning man as slaves was also started during the time and slaves from Africa were transported to America to be used as free thus establishing slavery. The renaissance is also known as an age of enlightenment because of the rebirth of cultural and literary supremacy of the Europe. The revolutionary political philosophy of Machiavelli is the highlight of the period who believed that the end justified the act. The decline of Roman Catholic Church can be contributed mainly to the philosophy of Bruni and Machialvelli, both of whom believed that religion and politics are two separate issues.

Renaissance also saw the emergence of women in the corridor of power of the European Monarchy. Mary Tudor, Elizabeth and Victoria are few of the legendary names that have made significant contribution to the politics of the nations. The gender equality was not an option in the olden times but the changing socio-economic processes during the period gradually transformed the social structure and social norms. Finally, the dictums of French revolution which legally denied women any rights as an individual became the foundation for the early feminist movement in Europe.

Olympe de Gouges, a noted playwright, published Déclaration des droits de la femme et de la citoyenne1 (1791) and became a torch bearer for the upcoming feminist movement. Indeed, renaissance can be truly claimed as the golden period of Europe that not only changed the political paradigms but helped the art and culture to flourish and attain great heights. ReferenceOlympe de Gouges. (1791). The Rights of Women. Available from: < http://www.pinn.net/~sunshine/book-sum/gouges.html> [Accessed 20, March, 200].

Renaissance. Available from: [Accessed 20, March, 200].