Christianity's Impact on European Culture and the Arts

From Late Antiquity to the Renaissance

From the late era of antiquity onwards, Christianity has been an intrinsic component of European culture. The story of Jesus Christ has long been regarded, and continues to be perceived, as a vital personification of the Christian faith. While this narrative is rich in content, Italian piety and artwork from the late Middle Ages and later periods frequently emphasize the Incarnation narrative and the chronological sequence of events.

The Importance of Christ's Life in Art

Depictions from the life of Christ, many of which also include his mother, the Virgin Mary, were among the most prevalent subjects in Italian art throughout this period. Michelangelo's "Il Giudizio Universale" (The Last Judgment) is a prime example of this trend. This fresco adorns the entire altar wall of the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City and depicts a dramatic representation of Christ's Final Judgment.