I am a real sucker for Web sites that give you the option between a basic HTML and a Flash version. The difference between the two is an animated introduction, as opposed to one you have to click through. The Flash version has more animation and sound, but you still get to visit the same sections with the HTML mode, so just choose which one is best for you!
If you don’t have a Flash player and need one, click the Flash link under the Enter the Site link. It will take you to a page you can visit to download one.
Whether you choose HTML or Flash, you’ll end up with the same sections to explore and they are:
Art Explorer – Here you will explore the arts during the Renaissance via a timeline, map or alphabetical listing. Click on the items to explore them further. For example, if you click on the ballet shoes throughout the timeline, you will learn what was happening in ballet at that time. This section has a lot to explore, so take your time going through the art, inventions and history. It’s all very interesting!
Innovations 1400 – 2000 – I adore this section, because you get to compare something from today that we use all the time (for example, the Internet) with some innovation that was developed in the 1400s. You also get to see how it developed along the way with stops at years in between. The effect of the time telescope is slightly more interesting in the Flash version because of the way it is delivered to you, but you get all the same information in either version. Here you can learn how digital cameras, money and even clothing have been related to innovations during the Renaissance.
Patron of the Arts – Here you can participate as a patron of the arts in the Renaissance. Choose whether you want to Glorify God, Glorify Your City or Glorify Yourself and Your Family. As you make your choice, it will decide which piece of art you end up commissioning. You even get to see if the art survived to this day and what it looks like now. This section was a lot of fun to surf through!
The Artist’s Life – In this section, you will learn all about the artist’s way of life. For instance, how they started as apprentices under Master Artists, only being able to become Master Artists themselves after years of dedication, honing their skill and luck. You will also be able to see how people become artists today, in comparison with those of the past.
Lesson Plans – Calling all teachers! Here you will find lesson plans you can incorporate into whatever subject you are teaching at a middle school level. Help your class come alive with the Renaissance!
I certainly enjoyed this site and I can’t wait to go back and finish exploring the timeline. Check it out!
http://www.renaissanceconnection.org/
~ Amanda