#Map of a feudal kingdoms free

Vopel skillfully drew by hand his portrayal of the earth's surface directly on the globe ball. This finely crafted and well-preserved three-inch terrestrial globe, within a six-inch armillary sphere, mounted on an octagonal brass base, is the work of Caspar Vopel (1511-1561), a teacher of mathematics in Cologne, Germany, and a scholar of wide cosmographical interests. Armillary spheres were demonstration models for teaching astronomy and for illustrating the earth's position within the universe. Terrestrial globes not only reflected the spherical nature of the earth but also served to document man's changing perception and expanding knowledge of the geography of the earth. Terrestrial and celestial globes and armillary spheres were important educational tools for illustrating the geographical, astronomical, and cosmographical concepts of the Renaissance and the Age of European Discovery. (Humanism's liberating idea, expressed in an essay by Pico della Mirandola). “O Adam, you may have whatever you desire” Readers were exposed to dramatically different world views, ranging from imaginary maps and travel accounts to information partly based on practical experience.

#Map of a feudal kingdoms free

The creation of increasingly modern and powerful economies, based on banking, trade, and commerce enabled an emerging middle class to participate in this free exchange of ideas.

Though handwritten and illuminated manuscripts had been the preserve of the learned few, the invention of printing led to a democratization of information. Yet, during the Renaissance, religious mysticism, superstition, and political authoritarianism intensified. Artists and writers brought a new, intense scrutiny to the individual human subject within the context of an emerging secular spirit. This period witnessed dramatic changes in cultural and intellectual life, linked to the enthusiastic rediscovery of the ancient Greek and Roman past. The Renaissance was an age of paradox in Europe.