Renaissance, Reformation, and Scientific Revolution - Essay Example

It changed the lifestyle of the people. Three-dimensional paintings and drawings were introduced in this era which made them look more real. These revolutions in art were very significant because people would display their messages through their paintings. Renaissance architecture was very elegant and domed cathedrals like Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome and Brunelleschi's Cathedral in Florence were also very beautifully designed. The impact of the Renaissance was very strong on Netherlands, France, and England. It focused more on Science, Mathematics, and Christianity.

The Protestant Reformation was started by Martin Luther who remodeled the religious and political map of Europe. These reformers promoted education especially in Calvinist areas therefore the role of the Catholic Church was truncated. The Thirty Years' War was also fought during this period between Spain and the Roman Empire over religious and nationalist issues. This upset the balance of political power though there was a slight change in social life as women’s role was improved. The Europeans were more interested in material wealth. There was an influx of gold and silver from Latin America that grew as colonization advanced. This change also hurt many others which resulted in the rise of the proletariat who did not have anything except their skills. Persecution began in this period which created hatred and fear in the hearts of the poor people.

The Scientific Revolution spread rapidly transforming all the areas of Europe. Copernicus’ discovery of the heliocentric theory also brought about a great influence on scientific studies. His work was carried on by Kepler’s planetary observations and Galileo’s research. According to a famous scientist, John Locke, everything could be known with the use of reason through the sense.

By 1750, political forms crystallized with few developments like that in Prussia. Dynamism, improvement in agriculture, and religious tolerance could be seen under the leadership of Frederick the Great. Colonization was the cause of the increase in consumer demand for imported products. Agriculture was also improved. Better seeds and methods of production were adopted from other countries of the world. An increase in the production of goods created jobs, therefore, the economy flourished. Although the developments in business sectors, economy, and political forms were independent they managed to transform the West. Read More