Compare and Contrast the Confucian Revival in Ming China and the Renaissance

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The Answer is •Similarities
oBoth looked to the past for inspiration and models: China to the Han,Tang,and Song dynasties;Europe to classical Greece and Rome.
oBoth produced art and literature representative of the period.
•Differences
oIn China,the Confucian revival was based on the belief that perfection had already been achieved in the past.The goal was to recapture that perfection in the present.In this regard,it was a conservative movement that affirmed past tradition and did not challenge prevailing ideas.
oIn Europe,the Renaissance imitation of Greco-Roman models was an attempt to surpass them.Although the Renaissance did not challenge religion,the humanism that marked Renaissance creativity contributed to an increasing secularism.
oAlthough both movements mostly involved and benefited wealthy male elites,women did participate.In China,two empresses wrote instructions for women,emphasizing traditional expectations.In Europe,however,Christine de Pizan in her City of Ladies challenged notions of female inferiority and called for equal education for women.
oIn China,the Confucian revival was in reaction to foreign influence.
oIn Europe,Renaissance artists and scholars sought inspiration from outside,in particular the Islamic world.

Compare and Contrast the Confucian Revival in Ming China and the Renaissance

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