Renaissance Masterpieces: Art and Architecture
Basilica di San Lorenzo, Florence
Details
Author: Filippo Brunelleschi
Chronology: 1421-1470
Style: Quattrocento
Material: Pietra Serena, Marble
Brunelleschi wrote extensively about the architecture, his obsession with perspective, directing all eyes towards the altar where vanishing points are concentrated. Columns with Corinthian capitals allow more light at height. Simple round windows in the triforium. Coffered ceiling. Known as the Basilica Ambrosiana, commissioned to honor the family of Bishop
Read MoreUnderstanding Diversity and Worldviews
Key Terms & Definitions
A. Tolerance
- The ability to accept and respect differences in opinions, beliefs, and behaviors, even if they are not aligned with your own.
- Example: Respecting someone’s religious dietary restrictions, even if you don’t follow them yourself.
B. Agnostic
- Someone who believes that the existence of God or the divine is unknown or unknowable.
- Example: An agnostic person might say, “There may be a God, but there’s no way to prove it.”
C. Discrimination
- The unfair or unjust
Ancient Roman Religion: Beliefs, Cults, and Gods
Foundations of Roman Religion
Roman religion was based above all on fear. The Roman sought protection in a religion based on worship and ritual. Roman religion was sometimes conceived as a contract between man and divinity: in exchange for sacrifices and other acts of worship, the gods protected the Romans, who were prone to superstition.
As Rome came into contact with peoples who had different religious beliefs and deities, they assimilated, transformed, or adapted these, resulting in a mosaic of
Read MoreEarly Medieval Europe: Faith, Feudalism, and Fragmentation
Europe After Rome: A Patchwork of Kingdoms
After the fall of the Western Roman Empire and the subsequent barbarian invasions, Europe fragmented into a series of independent territories ruled by peoples with fragile governments.
Rural Economy and Feudal Society
With the establishment of the Germanic kingdoms, cities declined, and the countryside became the principal source of wealth. Living conditions were harsh, marked by:
- Frequent wars
- Widespread diseases
- High mortality rates
Feudal lords resided in castles,
Read MoreFriendship Dynamics, Sexuality Development, and Ethics
Understanding Self-Esteem and Relationship Challenges
Self-esteem: A natural feeling, distinct from self-love, selfishness, or pride.
Common Relationship Issues
- Jealousy: One of the most frequent issues in relationships.
- Infidelity: This causes serious conflicts and relationship breakdowns.
- Violence: Disappointment when love ends can sometimes lead to violence against a former loved one.
Understanding Friendship
Concept of Friendship
Friendship, a type of love occurring between equals, is the manifestation
Read MoreChristian Teachings: Parousia, Death, and Meaning of Life
Christian Teaching: Beyond the Present
Any preaching of Jesus is marked by the announcement of his coming as Lord at the end of time.
This is known by the glorious name Parousia: the full and final establishment of God’s reign. A reign of peace and justice for all.
The time between the first coming of the Lord and his coming in glory at the end of time is the time of the Church; it is our story. During this time, Christ does not leave us alone but is with us through his Spirit and encourages us to
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