Randolph Reading Flashcards

1
Q

Fanciulli

A

Italian word meaning “children” or “youths,” often used in historical literary contexts, especially that if young boys.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
2
Q

Homosociality

A

Non-romantic, same-sex social bonds or friendships, often seen in groups or societies (e.g., male camaraderie).

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
3
Q

Dialectic

A

A method of exploring ideas through debate and discussion of opposing views to find the truth.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
4
Q

Donatello’s David

A

Early Renaissance bronze sculpture of David, showing him victorious over Goliath. First free-standing nude statue of the era, symbolizing youthful strength and heroism.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
5
Q

Florentine Signoria

A

Ruling council of Florence made up of nine members from the city’s guilds, holding executive power in the Florentine Republic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
6
Q

Filarete (c. 1400–1469)

A

Renaissance architect and sculptor, also known as Antonio di Pietro Averlino. known for his architectural treatise and work on the Ospedale Maggiore in Milan.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
7
Q

Ospedale Maggiore

A

Renaissance hospital in Milan designed by Francesco Filarete, featuring a large, symmetrical layout with a central courtyard.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
8
Q

Palazzo Vecchio (Old Palace)

A

Town hall of Florence, Italy, built in the 13th century. An important example of medieval architecture, symbolizing the political power of Florence during the Renaissance.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
9
Q

Ponte Vecchio

A

Historic bridge in Florence, Italy, built in the 14th century. Known for its shops along the span and iconic views, it’s one of the city’s oldest and most famous bridges.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
10
Q

Giovanni Battista Gelli (c. 1498–1563)

A

Italian Renaissance architect and engineer known for his work on fortifications and military architecture.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
11
Q

Vite d’Artisti

A

“Lives of the Artists,” a 1550 and 1568 work by Giorgio Vasari, featuring biographies of Renaissance artists and insights into their lives and art.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
12
Q

Di sotto in su (dee SOH-toh een soo)

A

Italian term meaning “from below upwards,” describing a perspective technique in art where figures or scenes are viewed from below, creating an illusion of depth and height.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
13
Q

Desiderio (c. 1449–1494)

A

Italian Renaissance sculptor known for marble works and portrait sculptures, including the tomb of St. Dominic.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
14
Q

Laureate of the Signoria

A

Title given to individuals honored by the ruling council of Florence, the Signoria, for exceptional contributions or achievements in various fields, such as arts, science, or public service.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
15
Q

Burlesque

A

Comic and exaggerated satire that uses humor and parody to mock or critique its subject, often involving playful imitation of serious works or genres.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
16
Q

Burchiellesque

A

Style related to Francesco Burchielli’s burlesque and satirical drawings, characterized by humor and exaggeration in depicting contemporary figures and events.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
17
Q

Quotidian Drama

A

Drama that portrays everyday, routine events, highlighting the inherent drama and significance in ordinary experiences.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
18
Q

Sodomitical

A

Historical term referring to acts or behaviors considered morally or religiously improper, specifically associated with sodomy, often used in a derogatory context.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
19
Q

Philistine

A

1) Ancient people known from the Old Testament, settled in Canaan. 2) Figurative term for someone perceived as lacking culture or intellectual interests.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
20
Q

Bardassa

A

Historical Italian term for a male prostitute or someone involved in homosexual activities during the Renaissance.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
21
Q

Bacchanalian

A

Related to Bacchus, the Roman god of wine; describes wild, drunken celebrations or excessively indulgent behavior.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
22
Q

Medicean

A

Related to the powerful Medici family of Florence, known for their influence on politics, culture, and their patronage of the arts during the Renaissance.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
23
Q

Medici Heraldic Palle

A

Roundels (balls) used in heraldry, notably seen on the Medici family crest, symbolizing coins or medicinal pills, reflecting the family’s name and legacy.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
24
Q

Ephebe

A

A young man or adolescent boy, especially in ancient Greece, undergoing military or civic training as part of his transition to adulthood.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
25
Q

Lorenzo de’ Medici (1449–1492)

A

Italian statesman and ruler of Florence, known as Lorenzo the Magnificent. A key patron of the arts, he helped Florence become a center of Renaissance culture, supporting artists like Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
26
Q

Angelo Poliziano (1454–1494)

A

Italian classical scholar, poet, and tutor to Lorenzo de’ Medici’s children (friend of Lorenzo). He was instrumental in the revival of classical literature during the Renaissance and known for his poetry and translations of Greek and Roman texts.

How well did you know this?
1
Not at all
2
3
4
5
Perfectly
27
Q

Brass Sesterius of Trajan

A

A large bronze coin from the reign of Emperor Trajan (98–117 AD), often featuring depictions of the emperor and commemorating his military victories or public works in the Roman Empire.

28
Q

Trajan (53–117 AD)

A

Roman emperor from 98–117 AD, known for expanding the empire to its greatest territorial extent and for public works like Trajan’s Column and Trajan’s Market. Celebrated for his military conquests and effective governance.

29
Q

Armenia

A

A country in the South Caucasus, known as one of the earliest Christian nations, adopting Christianity in 301 AD. It has a long and rich history, frequently positioned at the crossroads of major empires like Rome, Persia, and the Ottoman Empire.

30
Q

Mesopotamia

A

An ancient region between the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, often called the “cradle of civilization.” Home to early civilizations like the Sumerians, Babylonians, and Assyrians, known for writing, early cities, and advancements in law and science.

31
Q

Pazzi Conspiracy (1478)

A

A failed plot by the Pazzi family to assassinate Lorenzo and Giuliano de’ Medici. Giuliano was killed, but Lorenzo survived, leading to brutal reprisals that strengthened Medici control over Florence.

32
Q

Giuliano de’ Medici (1453–1478)

A

Younger brother of Lorenzo de’ Medici and co-ruler of Florence. Assassinated during the Pazzi Conspiracy in 1478, his death sparked retaliation that strengthened Medici power in Florence.

33
Q

Exergue

A

A small space on a coin or medal, usually below the main design, used for inscriptions like the date or mint mark.

34
Q

Agitis in fātum

A

Latin for “You act against fate” or “You are moving toward your destiny,” depending on interpretation.

35
Q

Ob Cives Servatos

A

Latin for “In order to save the citizens,” emphasizing the duty to protect and serve the people, often in political or military contexts.

36
Q

Psychomachia

A

A term meaning “battle of the soul,” referring to the internal conflict between good and evil within an individual, often illustrated in literature and philosophy. Notably associated with a poem by Prudentius.

37
Q

Prudentius (c. 348–c. 405 AD)

A

Roman poet and Christian author known for his allegorical poetry, including the famous “Psychomachia,” which depicts the struggle between virtues and vices, blending classical forms with Christian themes.

38
Q

Platina (c. 1421–1481)

A

Italian humanist and historian known for “Lives of the Popes” (Vite dei Papi), a biographical account of popes. He served as the Vatican librarian and played a key role in preserving classical and humanist literature.

39
Q

Via Larga (now Via Cavour)

A

Historic street in Florence, formerly known as Via Larga, now named after Italian statesman Camillo di Cavour. Associated with the Medici family and significant during the Renaissance.

40
Q

Gentile de’ Becchi (c. 1420–1470)

A

Italian bishop, diplomat, orator, and writer. Known for his humanist contributions and writings on rhetoric and ethics, he served as the bishop of Arezzo and was involved in various diplomatic missions for the Church.

41
Q

Goliath

A

A biblical giant and Philistine warrior defeated by David in the story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17). His defeat symbolizes the triumph of faith and courage over overwhelming odds.

42
Q

Cosimo de’ Medici (1389–1464)

A

Italian banker and statesman, known as Cosimo the Elder. Founder of the Medici dynasty in Florence, he was a major patron of the arts and humanism, significantly contributing to the cultural development of the Renaissance.

43
Q

Panormita (Antonio Beccadelli) (1390–1471)

A

Italian poet and humanist known for his Latin poetry, particularly “Hermaphroditus.” A significant figure in early Renaissance literature, he explored themes of sexuality and identity in his works.

44
Q

Hermaphroditus

A

A Latin poem by Antonio Beccadelli that explores themes of sexuality and identity through the figure of Hermaphroditus, reflecting the Renaissance humanist interest in the complexities of human nature.

45
Q

Sodomite

A

A term historically used to refer to individuals engaged in homosexual acts, derived from the biblical story of Sodom and Gomorrah. It has been used pejoratively, reflecting historical societal attitudes towards homosexuality.

46
Q

Luigi Pulci (1432–1484)

A

Italian poet known for his epic poem “Il Morgante,” which blends chivalric themes with humor and satire. A significant figure in the Renaissance, Pulci’s work reflects the transition from medieval to Renaissance literature.

47
Q

San Bernardino da Siena (1380–1444)

A

Italian Franciscan friar and preacher known for his eloquence and dedication to promoting Christianity. He emphasized devotion to the Holy Name of Jesus and was a key figure in the revival of the Franciscan order, focusing on moral reform and spirituality.

48
Q

Diaspatial

A

Relating to space or spatial dimensions, often in theoretical or abstract contexts, including discussions about geography, architecture, and the influence of space on human experience and perception.

49
Q

Piero de’ Medici (1472–1503)

A

Son of Lorenzo de’ Medici and ruler of Florence known as “Piero the Unfortunate.” His tenure was marked by political instability, struggles to maintain Medici power, and the family’s temporary expulsion from Florence in 1494.

50
Q

Niccolò Machiavelli (1469–1527)

A

Italian diplomat, philosopher, and writer known for “The Prince,” a political treatise emphasizing realpolitik and the nature of power. His ideas have made him a foundational figure in modern political philosophy.

51
Q

Giovan Francesco Rustici (c. 1475–1554)

A

Italian sculptor and architect known for his contributions to Renaissance art, particularly in Florence. Notable for his innovative sculptures and collaboration with artists like Leonardo da Vinci.

52
Q

Cardinal Giulio de’ Medici (1478–1534)

A

Italian cardinal and member of the Medici family, elected Pope Clement VII in 1523. His papacy faced significant political challenges, including the Sack of Rome in 1527, and he was known for his patronage of the arts and consolidation of Medici power.

53
Q

Giovanni de’ Medici (1475–1521)

A

Italian nobleman and cardinal, son of Lorenzo de’ Medici. Elected Pope Leo X in 1513, he was known for his political and ecclesiastical influence in Renaissance Italy and played a significant role in the Medici family’s power and governance in Florence.

54
Q

Baccio Bandinelli (1493–1560)

A

Italian sculptor and painter known for large-scale marble sculptures, including “Hercules and Cacus.” Influenced by Michelangelo, he contributed significantly to Renaissance art and the decoration of Florence’s public spaces.

55
Q

Bacchante

A

A female follower of Bacchus, the Roman god of wine, associated with revelry and ecstasy. In mythology and art, bacchantes represent themes of celebration and frenzy, often contrasting with the tragic elements of the Orpheus myth.

56
Q

Bandinelli’s Orpheus

A

A statue by Baccio Bandinelli depicting the mythological figure Orpheus, known for his musical talent. The narrative includes themes of male control and the tragic fate of Eurydice, often interpreted as misogynistic. The contrast between celebration and sorrow, reflecting the complexities of gender dynamics in classical mythology.

57
Q

Eurydice

A

Character in Greek mythology and wife of Orpheus. After her untimely death, Orpheus journeys to the Underworld to bring her back but loses her forever when he looks back before reaching the surface. Her story explores themes of love, loss, and the limitations of agency in classical narratives.

58
Q

Sacra rappresentazione

A

A form of medieval Italian religious drama that originated in the 13th century, characterized by its staging of biblical events and saints’ lives. These performances, often held in churches or public squares, aimed to educate audiences about Christian beliefs and values through dramatization, combining elements of theater and liturgy.

59
Q

Tableau Vivant

A

A silent and motionless scene presented by actors or models, often depicting a famous artwork, historical event, or narrative moment. Typically used in theater and art to convey a specific image or emotion, a tableau vivant involves careful composition and staging, creating a striking visual display that captures the viewer’s attention.

60
Q

Garzone

A

An Italian term for a young servant or assistant, often used in historical contexts to refer to a boy or youth serving in a household or as a page. It conveys a sense of youth and subservience in domestic settings.

61
Q

Giorgio Vasari (1511–1574)

A

An Italian painter, architect, and writer, best known for his biographies of Renaissance artists in “Le Vite delle più eccellenti pittori, scultori, e architetti.” His work laid the foundation for art history and provided insights into the lives and techniques of notable artists of his time.

62
Q

Florenzen and the Florentine vice

A

Terms coined by other countries to describe sodomitical practices which stemmed from the practices of the florentines. In Germany, homosexual sex was described by the verb florenzen, and in France it was the “the Florentine vice.”

63
Q

Fillicide

A

The act of killing one’s own child. This term encompasses both the crime and the motivations behind it, used by Bernardino to accuse sodomites of extinguishing potential offspring.

64
Q

Monte delle Doti

A

A financial institution established in Florence in the 16th century, specifically designed to provide dowries for women. It served to facilitate marriages by accumulating funds to help secure a suitable dowry, thereby supporting family alliances and social status in Renaissance society.

65
Q

Ufficiali di Notte

A

The night watchmen in Renaissance Florence tasked with maintaining order and security. They were also known for enforcing moral laws, including those against sodomy, reflecting the city’s legal and social attitudes toward same-sex relationships during that period.