Wednesday, April 11, 2012

One of the most confusing chapters in Renaissance history concerns the Italian Wars. The chapter in King that you're reading for this class goes into "deep background" with the history of the Italian city-states from the late medieval period up to the mid-16th century. Here are some things to take away from that chapter:

Homework and Presenter Questions (for homework do two):

  1. What is going on in Cellini's autobiography? What seems to be his objective? Who are the major players? What parts of the account do you think can be trusted?
  2. What impression does Cellini's account give of the clergy? He introduces his readers to Pope Clement, plus a cardinal who will one day be a pope. What do we learn about their character?
  3. The excerpts also include sections pertaining to Cellini's work under the patronage of Francis I of France. What does he reveal about his relationship with the king?
  4. How do you respond to the curious mixture of high art and violence in Cellini's account? How does he represent himself as a man, and what picture does the reading present of Renaissance models of male behavior?

Laurel Carrington carringt@stolaf.edu
Most recent update: January 26, 2012

 

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