Module 3: The Renaissance

Considered by many to be the greatest period of creative and intellectual achievement, this module examines the Renaissance from its origins in 13th century humanism to the 16th century when European art experienced dramatic transformation. You will explore the works of notable artists, their styles and themes, and understand the cultural, intellectual and social changes that shaped the period.

Why This Module Matters

The Renaissance marks a pivotal moment in art history, when humanism, perspective, and new artistic techniques transformed visual culture. Understanding this period allows you to analyze how innovation, patronage, and intellectual thought shaped some of the most influential works ever created.

• Recognize the social, political and cultural forces that defined the Renaissance.
• Understand key developments in technique, perspective, and composition.
• Gain insight into the evolution of the artist’s role and the concept of artistic genius.

By the end of Module 3, you’ll be able to place major Renaissance artworks in context, analyze their stylistic traits, and appreciate the period’s profound impact on Western art.

What You’ll Learn

• The Origins of the Renaissance
  Understanding humanism, early Italian art, and the cultural shifts that sparked the era.
• Florence & Key Artists
  Exploration of major Florentine artists and their contributions.
• Renaissance Courts & New Artists
  How patronage and court culture influenced the creation and meaning of artworks.
• High Renaissance & Regions
  Study of central Italian works and Venice as a melting pot for Renaissance ideas.

What You’ll Do

• Examine Key Works
  Study paintings, sculptures, and architecture to grasp style, technique, and themes.
• Contextual Analyses
  Place artworks within their historical, social and cultural context.
• Compare Regional Styles
  Identify differences between Florence, Venice, and other centres of the Renaissance.
• Develop Critical Perspective
  Develop skills to analyze Renaissance art, innovation, and humanist ideals.

Module Content

This module covers the following topics:

• The Origins of the Renaissance
• Florence & the Renaissance
• The Renaissance Courts & the Birth of a New Kind of Artist
• The High Renaissance & its Enemies
• Venice, Melting Pot of the Renaissance
• The End of the Renaissance?

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 3, you will:

• Understand the key phases and artists of the Renaissance period.
• Be able to analyze artworks with regard to style, technique, theme and context.
• Recognize the influence of patronage and humanism on artistic production.
• Have the foundation to compare Renaissance works across regions and later periods.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert tutors provide guidance specific to Module 3, helping you analyze works from early humanism to the High Renaissance, understand regional and stylistic differences, and contextualize artworks within their cultural, social and political environments. They offer constructive feedback to deepen your appreciation of technique, composition, and thematic development, supporting you in developing a confident, informed perspective on Renaissance art.