Human Heritage: A World History

"Renaissance Man"

Introduction
Why is the Mona Lisa smiling? Maybe because she knew Leonardo da Vinci, man of many talents. Leonardo lived in Italy during the late 1400s and early 1500s, and it could be said that his many endeavors define the Renaissance. His skills in the arts, sciences, and engineering, and his ingenuity in invention make him one of the most remarkable people that ever lived. To learn why he embodies the Renaissance spirit, go to the Renaissance Man Web site.

Destination Title: Renaissance Man

Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window.
Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips.

Directions
Start at the Renaissance Man Web site.

• Browse through the site, taking notes as you go.
• You may also click on "Exploring Leonardo" and browse. Be sure to take notes.
  Read through the information, and then answer the following questions.

1			What kinds of things did Leonardo da Vinci design? Which of his inventions resemble modern technology?
2			What scientific methods did Leonardo use to explore the world?
3			What effects did war have upon Leonardo's work?
4			What controversial method did Leonardo use to learn how to draw the human body?
5			Imagine you are a student of Leonardo da Vinci during the Renaissance. Given his busy schedule, Leonardo only has time to teach you one of his fields of interest. Choose among art, science, or invention and write a journal entry detailing a day spent studying that subject with him.