The Renaissance brought about a flourishing of all the arts, from architecture to painting to poetry, though not without a struggle. Just as Renaissance scientists and philosophers were determined to find truth, no matter what traditional beliefs were upset, so artists were determined to go where their private thoughts and emotions led them, even if it shattered cherished conventional beliefs. While the art of the Middle Ages focused on praising God and disapproving of humans and their spiritual weakness, Renaissance art focused on celebrating humans, both in their strengths and weaknesses. The art of the Middle Ages portrayed life as a grim punishment to be endured for the sake of a better afterlife. The art of the Renaissance portrayed life as a sensuous experience with a balance of both hardships and pleasures.

This new sensuality in painting was expressed both by exploring new...