Looking at the evidence This painting depicts the moment Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, is born fully grown out of the sea. It is called The Birth of Venus and was painted in 1484 by Botticelli. Look at the image and consider the following: 1.
2. Why do you think Renaissance artists painted images of gods and goddesses of ancient Rome? 3. What do you think of this painting? Do you like it or not? Give reasons for your answer. 4.
Is this painting a primary or secondary source? 5. Can paintings of people and places be helpful when learning about history? My Portfolio See Sources & Activity Book pages 56 – 70 for linked activities.
From your reading in Chapter 4, what do you think might be the differences between this painting and those from the Middle Ages.