Ada Palmer argues that the Italian Renaissance is a constructed historical concept, invented to illustrate periods of cultural flourishing and decline. The category of Byzantium is similarly invented, often juxtaposed with the Renaissance to highlight cultural progression or regression. Palmer’s recent book, "Inventing the Renaissance: The Myth of a Golden Age," discusses these concepts, demonstrating how they influence the Western historical imagination. As an educator, Palmer employs innovative teaching methods to engage students with Renaissance politics, illustrating the practical implications of these historical narratives.
Ada Palmer examines how the concept of the Italian Renaissance was invented as a historical category, crafted to serve various functions in Western culture.
The relationship between the idea of the Renaissance and the notion of Byzantium reveals how both categories shape our understanding of cultural progress and decline.
Palmer's work illustrates the evidence supporting the claim that the Renaissance is often viewed as a golden age in contrast to the perceived darkness of the Byzantine period.
Teaching through engaging methods, including simulated papal elections, Palmer strives to connect students to Renaissance politics and cultural history in memorable ways.
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