Carolingian, Macedonian and Islamic Renaissances - Essay Example

The major differences among the Carolingian, Macedonian and Islamic renaissances were the way religion was interpreted and learning and knowledge used to propagate the welfare of the people. The art and culture was also a factor of differentiation among the three. Renaissance can broadly be defined as the major changes in the socio-cultural paradigms of society through judicious use of advancing knowledge and learning.

The various differences in the three Renaissance are described as below In Carolingian Renaissance, Charlemagne became the main propagator of change and brought together the three major instruments of society; the peasants, nobility, and clergy to evolve a new society that is ruled by knowledge, learning, and application of the same in their life. Carolingian renaissance is known for uniformity of Christian religion, well-defined administration, and revival of learning. He helped streamline the administration by introducing military governors and dividing his kingdom into administrative units but was not much concerned with the broader aspect of art and culture as a whole.

These units were supervised by a representative from the clergy and another person, both of whom reported directly to him. During his reign, trade and commerce were considerably increased through the establishment of links with ‘Muslims and made commercial pacts with the merchants of Venice who traded with both Byzantium and Islam’ (history guide). The most distinguishing feature of the Carolingian renaissance was the emphasis on learning and preserving history by translating major manuscripts into English.

Grammar, syntax, and lowercase letters were introduced and used in the translation of all biblical manuscripts into English. On the other hand, the Macedonian Renaissance is the period between (867-1056) of the Macedonian dynasty when more common interests were incorporated into the Christian theme. The era was marked by the great rulers of the Byzantine Empire like Basil I, Alexander, Constantine VII, and VIII, etc. who brought a new dimension to the art and culture within the society. 

The changes in the political, social, and cultural environment were based on scientific and cultural interpretation rather than religious orthodoxy. The Carolingian, Macedonian and Islamic renaissance promote transformation through wider application of learning. Carolingian renaissance contributed towards the refinement of the English language and translation of religious texts into English. Macedonian exemplified art and culture to promote Christianity among the masses. Islamic renaissance relied heavily on the education and learning processes.

Thus, the Islamic scholars helped interpret their religious scripture Quran, for the promotion and development of new Islamic culture that could effectively counter the western ideology and advancement.