“The Renaissance had little impact.” Discuss with reference to one European country excluding Italy, Burgundy and Germany.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the Renaissance changed very little in the country they have chosen to consider. One approach could be to identify the main characteristics of the Renaissance and then to consider which of these, if any, had an impact. The main characteristics could include the move towards a more humanist education, developments in scientific knowledge, changing attitudes to religion, a more educated population as a consequence of developments in printing, support for trade and exploration, as well as changes in the arts and politics. The Renaissance is viewed as having transformed these areas and as being a period of cultural renewal. The extent of its impact will vary from country to country and candidates may offer some explanation as to why there was or was not a significant impact. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that the Renaissance had little impact, with reference to one European country excluding Italy, Burgundy and Germany. Few responses were seen to this question. Some candidates confused the Renaissance with the Enlightenment.