Key Difference – Middle Ages vs Renaissance
The Renaissance was a period of cultural awakening in European history, sometimes referred to as a rebirth or enlightenment, which is believed to have taken place between the 14th and 16th centuries. The Middle Ages, or the dark period, was a timeline that stretched from the 5th century to the 16th century in Europe. There are numerous differences between the Renaissance and Middle Ages, which were reflected in the realms of art, culture, technology, lifestyle, education, religion, and humanism.
What is the Middle Ages?
The cultural movement known as the Renaissance is characterized by art that symbolizes human beauty. Renaissance art is particular about perspective, with artists during this period showing the difference in perspective in their paintings. Some famous Renaissance artists include Michael Angelo and Leonardo da Vinci. The Renaissance was marked by individualistic feelings and people’s tendency to move to cities in search of better opportunities and life. It was during the Renaissance that humans realized the importance of education and learned that humans were the best creation of God. During the Renaissance, everything happened at a fast pace, with many technological changes occurring rapidly.
What is the Renaissance?
Although the Renaissance is a period encompassing the Middle Ages, it has features that are entirely different from what was common during the Middle Ages. Art in the Middle Ages was Gothic in style, with people placing emphasis on community living and the importance of their place of residence. While the feudalistic society was more rigid in the Middle Ages, it was much more relaxed during the Renaissance period. During the Middle Ages, people were pessimistic about life, and the concept of sin and morality superseded everything they did in life. The idea that God was everything and humans were nothing was ingrained in people’s minds. The Middle Ages are characterized as static, with not much happening in people’s lives.
In terms of religion, the Middle Ages are marked by the power of the Roman Catholic Church. On the other hand, the Church’s grip loosened due to the Reformation. However, religion continued to play a significant role in people’s lives. Education was only for the clergy during the Middle Ages, but the invention of the printing press led to a revolution in the field of education, making it available to all people.
What is the difference between Middle Ages and Renaissance?
Definitions of Middle Ages and Renaissance:
Middle Ages: Middle Ages is a traditional period of Western history.
Renaissance: Renaissance is a period of Western history where several changes took place.
Characteristics of Middle Ages and Renaissance:
Art:
Middle Ages: Art in the Middle Ages was Gothic in style.
Renaissance: Art symbolizes human beauty.
People:
Middle Ages: People placed emphasis on community living.
Renaissance: The Renaissance is characterized by individualistic feelings.
Period:
Middle Ages: The Middle Ages were static.
Renaissance: The Renaissance was fast-paced, with many technological changes.
