Question

How did geography contribute to the start of the Renaissance in Italy?

Answer 1

The renaissance started in Italy for several different reasons. It was close to trade routes, had one of the best scholars, and contained a lot of wealth. To elaborate, the Italian cities gained control of their government and were extremely wealthy due to trade and industry. Many Italian families became bankers, which in turn, increased their wealth as well. Italians focused on education and the arts. Individual achievement was greatly stressed. This lead to the idea of a Renaissance Man. A Renaissance Man was an individual who excelled in education, travelled to near or far by places, and created or viewed works of art. One example of a Renaissance Man would be Leonardo Da Vinci. He is considered as one of the world’s most famous artists and had created the Mona Lisa. 

Answer 2

Answer:    A favorable position of Italian cities and ports in the Mediterranean and a good connection with the sea trade routes towards the East and the West.

Explanation:  The Renaissance originated in Tuscany in central Italy, specifically in Florence, in order to spread  to Venice. The fact that at that time in Italy there were city-states with their own governments and armies, and that wealthy merchants and bankers could easily participate in the government, thus strengthening their political influence and creating opportunities for further prosperity. They were also interested in art, too, because the foundations were considered important in spreading influence. Thus, thanks to the interest of wealthy merchants and bankers, trade routes were developed throughout the Mediterranean, and the geographical position made it very easy. Developed ports due to the need of trade became powerful centers that attracted not only traders, but also artists, philosophers, writers, and new ideas. In such an environment, business transactions, transport of goods, various influences that can easily come from other areas, thanks to a well-connected network of ports and sea routes, new ideas have easily arrived in Italian city-states. One of them is certainly ancient Greek art and philosophy, humanism, whose re-animation after the dark middle ages represents the phenomenon of the Renaissance. In such a vibrant business environment, the impact of new ideas, wealthy citizens were interested in art and were willing to invest in art.