Not everyone was delighted by the art and ideas of the Renaissance. Some people merely resisted the new ideas; others were outra
ged by them. Describe one of the great controversies of the era. (Who was outraged and why?) Use the words from the word bank to fill in the blanks.
words: books, god, ideals, criticism, hanged, Medici, flee, human abilities, power, friar, humanists', strict
Girolamo Savonarola, a _______ , worried that the people of Florence were distracted from God by their wealth and many possessions. In his fiery sermons, Savonarola attacked the new emphasis on worldly goods and the glorification of _______ . He preached that Florentines should focus on _______ and their soul. He spoke out against the _______ fondness for the classical writers. Savonarola and his followers accused the _______ of being corrupt rulers and the bankers of stealing from the people. He accused the priests of being more concerned with _______ and wealth than saving souls. He used his influence to spread unrest and force the Medici to _______ Florence. Savonarola advised the new leaders to impose _______ regulations on public behavior. He had crowds make bonfires to burn _______ , paintings, fancy clothes, and musical instruments. The city was torn between the spirit of humanism and medieval Christian _______ . Many people did not like Savonarola’s strict ways and his _______ of church officials led to his downfall. Eventually, he was arrested and _______ . The Medici returned to Florence and resumed their role as leaders.
