ITALIAN RENAISSANCE MASTERS AND MUSES (IN-PERSON)

The Italian Renaissance was a period of great cultural, intellectual, artistic, scientific, and social achievement that began during the 14th century. This course will explore this period emphasizing key figures including: Giovanni Pico della Mirandola, who championed human potential; Marsilio Ficino, who merged Platonic philosophy with Christianity; Leonardo da Vinci, a polymath blending science, engineering and art; Michelangelo, famed for his magnificent sculptures, paintings, and architecture; as well as famous women who played vital roles, such as Caterina Sforza, Isabella d’Este, Lucrezia Borgia, Vittoria Colonna, Caterina de`Medici, and Veronica Franco. Together, these individuals shaped a period of immense creativity, intellectual growth, and cultural transformation that continues to influence Western thought.