The Renaissance was a period of profound transformation, marking a decisive break from the medieval world and laying the groundwork for modernity. Central to this transformation was a shift in how individuals understood and fashioned their identities. As noted by Stephen Greenblatt in "Renaissance Self-Fashioning," this period saw a movement from an identity rooted in the divine cosmic order to one where human agency took center stage.
During the medieval period, individuals perceived themselves as mere actors, enacting roles in a grand, divine play. Their destinies, bound by the heavens, left little room for personal maneuvering. However, the Renaissance ushered in a fresh paradigm. While divinity still held sway, there emerged a conviction that individuals could shape their destinies. Art, literature, and personal narratives of the time reflect this newfound agency.
A defining trait of the Renaissance was the burgeoning sense of individualism. This was palpable not only in art, where the human form assumed greater significance but also in literary endeavors that explored personal experiences. Yet, it is vital to note, as Greenblatt does, that this individualism did not exist in isolation. Renaissance men and women were deeply influenced by societal and political contexts. Their self-fashioning was as much a reaction to external circumstances as it was an internal journey.
Another compelling dimension that Greenblatt sheds light on is the relationship between self-fashioning and power dynamics. Identity formation in the Renaissance was not an arbitrary exercise; it was meticulously crafted in response to existing power structures. Eminent figures like Sir Thomas More and Queen Elizabeth I exemplify how identity construction was inextricably linked to the politics of the time.
The literary and artistic endeavors of the Renaissance were characterized by deep introspection. Contrasted with many medieval works, where characters often had allegorical roles, the Renaissance gave birth to a richer exploration of human motivation and individual characterization.
While Greenblatt's "Renaissance Self-Fashioning" meticulously contrasts the medieval and the Renaissance periods, it's worth noting the profound influence of ancient Greek and Roman cultures on the Renaissance. This era, often termed a "rebirth," saw the resurgence of classical values. Whether in the revival of classical texts or the celebration of individual accomplishments, the fingerprints of the ancients were evident. Yet, the Renaissance was not merely a reiteration of the classical past; it melded classical wisdom with the unique dynamics of its epoch, creating a vibrant tapestry of thought and expression.
Ancient Athens prized individuality within the context of the polis, emphasizing civic participation and oratory. Renaissance Italy, on the other hand, celebrated personal achievements, giving rise to the concept of the "Renaissance Man" - a polymath excelling in various disciplines. Art and literature in both cultures reflected these values, with Athenian tragedies exploring human motivations and Renaissance literature delving into complex character introspection. However, their expressions of self-fashioning were contextually different, shaped by their unique cultural and societal norms.
Both ancient Athens and Renaissance Italy were marked by deep philosophical introspection. In Athens, Socratic questioning encouraged individuals to evaluate their beliefs. The Renaissance, meanwhile, with its emphasis on humanism, promoted introspective thought, evident in the profound self-reflection present in artworks and writings.
Among the many milestones of the Renaissance was Alberti's introduction of the "vanishing point" in art. This novel technique allowed for the precise representation of three-dimensional space on a two-dimensional plane, revolutionizing art's depth and realism. But beyond the technical, this innovation had philosophical implications. The emphasis on a unified viewpoint in art mirrored the Renaissance's focus on the individual, reinforcing the era's broader themes of individualism and self-fashioning. The profound shifts in perspective and consciousness during the Renaissance were not merely innovative advancements; they marked a radical divergence from the medieval mindset that had previously dominated Western thought.
During the Middle Ages, the individual's identity was subsumed within the larger collective of society. People perceived themselves primarily through their roles within a communal framework, be it familial, vocational, or ecclesiastical. The overarching dominance of the Church further underscored this collective mindset, as individuals were often seen in terms of their relationship with God and their place within the cosmic order. Art from this period mirrored this collectivism, with a relative lack of individualized portraiture and an emphasis on religious and communal themes.
The Late Medieval period onto the Renaissance brought with it a significant reorientation. As cities burgeoned and commerce flourished, a newfound emphasis on individual capability and agency emerged. This was not a mere shift in emphasis but a foundational change in how people understood themselves. The development of linear perspective in art can be seen as a metaphor for this broader societal shift. Just as artists began to focus on a single viewpoint within their paintings, individuals started to view themselves as the central actors in their narratives, distinct from the collective.
Renaissance art became a platform for individual expression and self-fashioning. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo didn't just create art; they imprinted their unique perspectives and identities onto their works. Moreover, the rise of humanism emphasized human potential and individual achievement, further distancing the Renaissance from medieval thought.
The Renaissance's emphasis on individualism and the novel techniques of linear perspective in art were not merely additive to the medieval worldview; they represented a comprehensive departure from it. This transition from a collective to an individualistic paradigm shaped the contours of modern Western thought and laid the groundwork for subsequent intellectual and artistic movements. Without this change, we wouldn’t get figures like John Locke, Rousseau, or later Nietzche. Neither would we get the self-absorbed culture of today.
In the intricate dance of history and philosophy, the Renaissance ideals of self-fashioning, linear perspective, and burgeoning individualism find a profound echo in Friedrich Nietzsche's concept of the "transvaluation of values." Nietzsche, a herald of iconoclasm, pushed for a radical re-evaluation of established moral frameworks, advocating for individuals to craft their own values and narratives. This entreaty mirrored the Renaissance shift from collective medieval sensibilities to individual-centric paradigms, where the canvas of life, both in art and in personal identity, was centered around the self. Nietzsche's call was not merely for a revision but a profound upheaval, where values weren't handed down but crafted, mirroring the self-fashioning ethos.
Yet, diving deeper into this ocean of self-making and value transmutation, a complex undertow emerges. The very act of ceaseless self-fashioning, while liberating, can also be destabilizing. A society composed of individuals continuously reshaping their core values risks fracturing into a mosaic of solipsistic islands, each speaking its own dialect of morality and meaning. Such fluidity, while fostering creativity and personal growth, might erode the foundational glue holding communities, families, and nations together. A father, incessantly redefining himself, might struggle to provide the constancy that parenthood often demands. The transvaluation of values, while exhilarating, can lead to an internal tumult, making the roles that require stability, like that of a citizen or a family member, challenging to uphold. In a world where every individual is their own compass, navigating the shared seas of societal obligations becomes a complex endeavor. The celebration of individualism, when unchecked, may inadvertently eclipse the collective, leading to a society that, while rich in personal narratives, lacks a shared story.
The self-absorbed subcultures of today find their roots in the Western tradition of self-fashioning and self-portraiture that blossomed during the Renaissance. As artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Albrecht Dürer began to emphasize individualism through their works, they not only captured physical likenesses but also delved into the personal aspirations, thoughts, and feelings of their subjects. This marked the beginning of a cultural shift that placed significant value on individual self-expression and recognition. Cultural historians like Stephen Greenblatt have noted that Renaissance individuals actively crafted their public image based on societal norms, personal ambitions, and power dynamics, a sentiment that echoes in the ways individuals shape their online personas in our digital age. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter have become the modern canvases for self-portraiture. The popular "selfie" culture, for instance, is a direct evolution of traditional self-portraiture, where individuals curate and present versions of themselves to the world.
Additionally, contemporary subcultures, whether centered around fandoms, fashion, or lifestyles, act as microcosms of broader societal trends, offering frameworks for individuals to explore, define, and redefine their identities. However, modern subcultures are also intrinsically tied to consumerism. The act of personal "branding", especially in the era of influencers and content creators, intertwines self-presentation with economic implications. This recalls the Renaissance-era patrons who commissioned portraits to showcase not just their likeness but also their wealth, power, and taste. Yet, as with any cultural movement, critiques abound. Just as the Renaissance faced concerns about the potential vanity of its self-focused art, today's digital age grapples with the implications of social media on mental health, superficiality, and the pressures of ceaseless self-presentation. In sum, the impulse to define, present, and reinterpret oneself has been a consistent theme throughout Western history, with today's self-absorbed subcultures representing the latest chapter in this ongoing narrative of identity and perception.
The ephemeral nature of platforms like TikTok, Instagram stories, and Snapchat represents a profound shift in our understanding and consumption of digital content. Unlike more traditional platforms where the content was designed to be permanent and evergreen, these platforms emphasize the fleeting nature of moments, encapsulating a "here today, gone tomorrow" ethos. This temporary nature perhaps mirrors the rapid pace of our digital lives, where moments are captured, shared, and then quickly replaced by the next. It's a continuous stream of consciousness, a digital representation of our transient experiences.
In juxtaposition to the ephemeral nature of these platforms, tattoos offer a more permanent means of expression. Historically, tattoos have been symbols of one's experiences, beliefs, or affiliations, a way to etch one's narrative on the canvas of the body. In modern times, tattoos often intersect with the search for identity. As individuals navigate the complexities of contemporary life, tattoos can serve as anchors, reminders of where one has been, or signposts for where one hopes to go. They are a tangible commitment in an era defined by fluidity and change.
Identity, as a concept, is multifaceted and has been a subject of philosophical and sociological discussion for centuries. At its core, "identity" pertains to the qualities, beliefs, and characteristics that make a person unique. The "Self" further delves into this, seeking to define the individual's perception of who they are, internally and in relation to the external world. In the age of globalization and digitalization, our understanding of these terms continuously evolves, often blurring the lines between our offline and online personas.
This leads us to the distinction between core and situational identity. Core identity revolves around the intrinsic and enduring aspects of oneself, often rooted in long-term beliefs, values, and characteristics. Situational identity, on the other hand, is more fluid, changing based on context, environment, or the people one interacts with. It's adaptive and can be seen as a response to external stimuli. While core identity provides stability, situational identity offers flexibility, allowing individuals to navigate varied social situations and roles.
Place and its significance have been integral in shaping one's identity. Historically, individuals often identified strongly with their place of birth or residence, with local customs, traditions, and values playing a pivotal role in defining who they were. However, with the advent of modern transportation and communication technologies, our world has become increasingly interconnected. The digital age has further revolutionized our understanding of place, allowing us to form connections and communities that aren't bound by geography. While this has enriched our lives, enabling a confluence of diverse perspectives and cultures, it has also led to a reevaluation of the significance of physical places in our identities. Today, the notions of home, belonging, and place are more fluid, often interwoven with our digital personas and the global communities we align with.
In the digital age, where our self-presentation is as malleable as the pixels on our screens, we find surprising parallels in the cultural and artistic revolution of the Renaissance. Just as today's social media platforms afford us the tools to curate and project an idealized self-image, the Renaissance marked a transformative period where individuals began to engage in a conscious act of self-fashioning. During the 14th to the 17th century, Europe experienced an unprecedented surge in artistic, cultural, and intellectual growth. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Raphael not only pushed the boundaries of creative expression but also, through their works, sought to explore and represent the human condition and individual identity. The art of portraiture flourished, capturing not just physical likenesses but also the aspirations, intellectual prowess, and societal status of their subjects. Just as we use filters, poses, and captions to craft a particular online persona, the subjects and patrons of Renaissance portraits were engaged in a similar exercise of self-definition. This period, therefore, laid the groundwork for the modern notions of self-awareness and individualism, serving as a poignant precursor to today's digital age of identity construction.
We should be able to discern that there's a profound interconnection between an individual's mental health and well-being and their relationship with a permanent home and place. This relationship is multifaceted and shaped by various factors, including age, migration status, urbanity, and particularly, ethnicity.
In the era of digital dynamism, where transient experiences on platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Snapchat dominate, the value of permanence and stability, as embodied by a home or a place, becomes all the more pronounced. Just as the Renaissance period heralded a new emphasis on individualism and self-awareness through art and literature, the modern individual seeks solace, stability, and identity in a permanent dwelling or locale. This is not merely a matter of physical security but is deeply tied to psychological well-being.
Research underscores the benefits of residential stability, which can foster a sense of belonging, community, and rootedness. These factors play an indispensable role in an individual's mental well-being, acting as anchors in an increasingly fluid world. Older individuals, who might have accumulated memories and established routines over the years, often derive comfort and a sense of identity from their homes. On the other hand, migrants, who may have been uprooted from familiar surroundings, face challenges in establishing connections but, over time, can develop attachments that substantially influence their psychological health.
The lens of ethnicity further illuminates the depth of this relationship. Cultural traditions, shared histories, and collective experiences contribute to how different ethnic groups interact with and become attached to places. Historical traumas, such as forced migrations or segregation, can significantly impact place attachment for certain groups, influencing their well-being. Conversely, strong community bonds and shared cultural practices can heighten feelings of place attachment and, in turn, bolster mental health.
In essence, having a permanent home and a solid connection to a specific location provides more than just physical shelter; it offers emotional and psychological stability. In a world characterized by rapid changes and increasing global mobility, the sanctuary of a stable home and the comfort of a familiar locale are invaluable assets for mental well-being and overall health. “Place Attachment and Place Identity” by David Hummon looks into place attachment and delves into the deep emotional and psychological connections that people form with particular locations. These connections can be so profound that they influence individual identities, behaviors, and overall well-being. Hummon outlines different types of rootedness, from those deeply connected to a particular place due to generational ties, to those who might form swift attachments regardless of how long they've stayed. The study underscores that place attachment is multifaceted and influenced by various socio-cultural and personal factors.
Furthermore, in a study called, "A Place to Call Home: Identification with Dwelling, Community, and Region" by Maria Lewicka we see an exploration into the psychological constructs associated with place attachment, spanning from the immediate dwelling or home to the broader community and region. Lewicka found that the attachments at these various levels (dwelling, community, region) offer different psychological benefits. For instance, dwelling attachment was closely linked to personal memories and offered a sense of security, while regional attachment was more about shared identity and cultural pride. The study posits that a holistic sense of place attachment encompasses all these levels, contributing to overall well-being.
Based on the two studies mentioned, it can be inferred that there are significant psychological benefits associated with feeling a sense of attachment and rootedness to a particular place or home. Both Hummon and Lewicka emphasize the deep emotional and psychological connections people can form with specific locations, which in turn influence their identities, behaviors, and well-being.
Hummon's study brings forward the concepts of "rootedness" and "belongingness," suggesting that individuals who have a deep-seated connection or bond with a place, often cultivated over an extended period, experience a sense of stability and identity. This feeling of being "rooted" can provide a foundation of security and belonging, which are essential elements for psychological well-being.
Lewicka's research further underscores the benefits at multiple levels, from the immediate dwelling or home to the broader community and region. The psychological advantages of these attachments range from personal memories and a sense of security at the dwelling level to shared identity and cultural pride at the regional level.
However, while these studies highlight the positive aspects of place attachment and rootedness, it's essential to note that the relationship between place and psychological well-being is complex. Some individuals thrive in more transient lifestyles, finding meaning and fulfillment in new experiences and diverse settings. Conversely, some might feel trapped or stifled by staying in one place for too long.
In summary, while research indicates that having a deep-rooted connection to a specific location and maintaining a long-term residence can provide significant psychological advantages, it's vital to acknowledge the diversity of individual experiences and needs. What is beneficial for one might not hold true for another. Nonetheless, it seems evident that having a genuine place to call home is optimal for the majority of individuals. As we navigate the ever-evolving landscape of our digital existence, the importance of an authentic sanctuary becomes even more pronounced. If our minds, bodies, and souls are in perpetual motion and flux, can we truly consider ourselves grounded? How can we maintain a consistent sense of self when our lives are characterized by frequent relocations for employment, engagement with ever-changing social media platforms, consumption of fleeting content snippets tailored to our transient inclinations, an absence of enduring communal ties, and a focus on curating our digital personas?
~à la belle vie, JJ
Explanatory Note 1:
The term for articles that use hyperlinks extensively is "hyperlinked" or "hyperlink-rich" content. Such articles are often found on the web and are characteristic of digital writing and online journalism. The hyperlinks in these articles usually provide additional context, direct readers to source material, or offer further reading options. Another related term is "hypertext," which refers to text displayed on a computer or other electronic devices with references (hyperlinks) to other text that the reader can access immediately. Generally, the main contributor of this publication dislikes the overuse of links and various media throughout a text. I use them sporadically and where I feel it is the most useful. I will not give proper APA or MLA end notes, but I will list a decent bibliography when appropriate. I will never discuss this again on substack so please enjoy it.
Explanatory Note 2 :
45k and Mr. Sandbatch. Read this and discuss. Cheers!
Explanatory Note: 3
The two studies I mention in this article can be found by “googling”.
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da Vinci, Leonardo. "The Notebooks of Leonardo Da Vinci." Edited by Jean Paul Richter, Dover Publications, 1970.
Dürer, Albrecht. "The Complete Woodcuts of Albrecht Dürer." Dover Publications, 1963.
Nietzsche, Friedrich. "Thus Spoke Zarathustra." Penguin Classics, 1969.
Nietzsche, Friedrich. "Beyond Good and Evil: Prelude to a Philosophy of the Future." Vintage, 1989.
Safranski, Rüdiger. "Nietzsche: A Philosophical Biography." W. W. Norton & Company, 2003.
Burton, Tara Isabella. "Strange Rites: New Religions for a Godless World." Public Affairs, 2020.
Saltz, Jerry. "How to Be an Artist." Riverhead Books, 2020.
Marwick, Alice E. "Status Update: Celebrity, Publicity, and Branding in the Social Media Age." Yale University Press, 2013.
Senft, Theresa M. "Camgirls: Celebrity and Community in the Age of Social Networks." Peter Lang Inc., 2008.
Warburg, Aby. "The Renewal of Pagan Antiquity: Contributions to the Cultural History of the European Renaissance." Getty Research Institute, 1999.
Manovich, Lev. "The Language of New Media David Hummon (1992)