The Renaissance Popes, 1431-1521 (1)

There were in all eight of these popes. Since they were the Renaissance popes, it is necessary that we be clear on that movement known in history as the Renaissance. The Renaissance -- the word means new birth -- was a revival of the pagan learning, wisdom and art of the Graeco-Roman world. It had its beginning in Italy shortly after the capture of Constantinople by the Turks in 1453. The fall of the city caused a great migration of Greek scholars into Italy. These fugitives brought with them...