Renaissance Begins — Reading Comprehension

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This engaging history reading passage introduces students to the beginning of the Renaissance, a time when Europe shifted from the medieval era to the modern world. The text explores how growing towns, increased trade, and new wealth led to the revival of classical learning and the emergence of humanism. Students will learn about the important role of Italian city-states like Florence, the influence of ancient Greek and Roman texts, and how people’s views on life and learning began to change. The passage includes references to primary sources, key historical terms, and cause-and-effect relationships, making it ideal for building critical reading and analysis skills. With a glossary, differentiated versions, reading comprehension activities, and Spanish translation, this resource meets CA HSS 7.8 and CCSS RI.6-8 standards, and supports diverse learners with accessible content, read-aloud audio, and visual supports.

CONTENT PREVIEW

"Leonardo da Vinci (1452-1519) - The Last Supper (1495-1498)" by Leonardo da Vinci / Wikimedia Commons.

The Renaissance began in Europe during the 1300s, marking a shift from the Middle Ages to the beginnings of the modern era. This period was defined by the revival of classical learning, the rise of powerful towns, and new ideas about humanity and knowledge.

One of the main reasons for the Renaissance was the growth of towns and city-states in Italy, especially Florence and Venice. As trade increased across the Mediterranean, merchants and bankers became wealthy. For example, the Medici family of Florence used their fortune to support artists and scholars. This new patronage system allowed talented people to focus on art, science, and literature. The busy streets of Florence were filled with markets, workshops, and libraries where people exchanged ideas and learned from one another.

The return to classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome was another key factor. Many scholars, called humanists, searched for forgotten manuscripts in monasteries and old libraries. They translated works by philosophers like Plato and Aristotle into Latin and local languages. A famous example is Petrarch, who in the 1300s collected ancient poems and letters. These texts inspired people to value reason, observation, and individual achievement. Art began to show more realistic human figures, as seen in Giotto’s paintings and Donatello’s sculptures.

The spread of humanism changed how people thought about the world. Instead of focusing only on religious life, more Europeans became interested in science, nature, and the importance of the individual. The invention of the printing press around 1440 by Johannes Gutenberg made it easier to share new ideas. Books could now be printed quickly and more people learned to read. This led to greater questioning of old beliefs and sparked debates about government, religion, and society.

The Renaissance marked the end of the medieval world and the start of modern Europe. It encouraged curiosity, creativity, and new ways of thinking. The movement spread from Italy to the rest of Europe, influencing art, science, politics, and everyday life for centuries.

As you study world history, notice how the Renaissance connects the past to our present world and shows the power of learning and innovation.

Interesting Fact: The word "Renaissance" means "rebirth" in French, capturing the spirit of renewal during this remarkable time.

Where did the Renaissance begin?

ItalyFranceEnglandGermany

Who supported artists in Florence?

Medici familyGutenbergPetrarchPlato

What invention helped spread new ideas?

Printing pressSteam engineCompassTelescope

Why did towns grow during the Renaissance?

Increased tradeMore warsFarming inventionsPlague

How did humanism change people's thinking?

Focused on individual achievementIgnored scienceOnly studied religionBanned books