Criticisms of the idea of the English Renaissance

The notion of calling this period "the Renaissance" is a modern invention, having been popularized by the historian in the nineteenth century. The idea of the Renaissance has come under increased criticism by many cultural historians, and some have contended that the "English Renaissance" has no real tie with the artistic achievements and aims of the northern Italian artists who are closely identified with the Renaissance.

I think that there was no English Renaissance, and that if there had been one, it had "no effect whatsoever".

The word "Renaissance" as an unnecessarily loaded word that implies an unambiguously positive "rebirth" from the supposedly more primitive Middle Ages. Some historians have asked the question "a renaissance for whom?

Actor: English (peoples)
Intention: To manipulate, to conquer
Rule: Architecture spread in European culture
Act: Conquer
Site: Europe
Product: Modern architecture

Renaissance Architecture Explanation

The term Renaissance is a French term meaning Rebirth. Collectively, the Renaissance is accepted is a time period when classical culture was reintroduced into Europe after the Middle Ages. It was a time when increased trade and culture diffusion shed a light upon the medieval European society. As a result the Middle Ages are also referred to as the Dark Ages. Chronologically the period lasted from the late 14th century into the early 17th century.

Italian Renaissance Architecture:

Given: Geographical modern Italy is no different than Ancient Italy and the Italy under the Roman Empire. Therefore the Renaissance was bound to have a strong impact on 16th century Italy. Here there was a rediscovery of classical architecture. The Greek orders went back into use as did Roman arches and vaults and domes. The vast majority of Renaissance architects borrowed from the Greek and Roman classical styles, but included with them at the time modern elements. The architecture may have resembled each other, but the times, in reality, had changed and so had the needs of the people. During both the Renaissance and the Ancient Classical world, beauty obviously was emphasized. In contrast, the Renaissance world was a secular one. We can only accept the fact that because culture was increasingly secular, that architecture as well would be increasing secular. Furthermore, during the Renaissance was an increasing movement known as the Humanist Movement, which focuses attention on the importance of the individual rather than a religion or government. Plenty works of art and architecture express this theme.

Renaissance architecture wasn't completely secular. For example, one of the greatest examples of Renaissance architecture in Italy is the Farnese Palace designed by Antonio da Sangallo. Work on the Farnese Palace began in around 1514. After Sangallo died, Michelangelo continued his designs. This Roman Palace was designed for Cardinal Alessandro Farnese - otherwise known as Pope Paul III.

Also, Michelangelo worked on the Sistine Chapel, designed for Pope Sixtus IV. It now lies in the Vatican at Rome.

French Renaissance Architecture:

Much Renaissance glory had been maintained by Italy for the Renaissance did begin there. However, under the reign of Louis XII, France achieved some Renaissance appearance. In 1546 work began on the Louvre, designed by Pierre Lescot. the Louvre was the French Renaissance expression.

English Renaissance Architecture:

In England the Renaissance was potent force in England during the 16th century. During this period two distinctive styles emerged:

Elizabethan style	Jacobean style
blended Medieval and Renaissance styles characteristic of large noble houses transition from Medieval to Renaissance Predominant during Queen Elizabeth's reign from 1558-1603	blended medieval and renaissance styles characteristic of formal structures transition from Elizabethan to Pure Renaissance Predominant after Queen Elizabeth's reign Tends to be more unified and consistent