the journal of literature and the arts at saint david ’ s school
the conventional usage of “ flying buttresses and free-standing scaffolding ,” Brunelleschi created an “ 150 feet wide and 376 feet high freestanding dome with over four million bricks ’’ ( Mueller ). It remained an enigma for years following the construction . How was Brunelleschi able to come up with the plan for the largest dome in the world , which included over four million bricks , without it collapsing ? The design of this dome personifies the genius of Brunelleschi and the inventiveness he exhibited in order to create the most unforgettable work of architecture or art that Florence would ever see . With this work , Brunelleschi had reached the peak of his career , but it certainly wasn ’ t the pinnacle of the Italian Renaissance . Brunelleschi had “ revived the art of architecture ,” but he was only the spark , as countless generations of driven artists and architects were waiting , inspired by Brunelleschi ’ s virtuosity and resilience ( “ Fillipo Brunelleschi ,” The Art Story ).
A bonafide Renaissance man is defined by his ability to withstand tribulation , be resilient , and strive for the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life . Brunelleschi , after his loss at the competition for the Baptistry , motivated himself to leave an ineradicable legacy for not only the city of Florence but all of the world . Brunelleschi ’ s life story , highlighted by a setback and a more memorable comeback , personifies the characteristics of a true Renaissance man . As Brunelleschi advises his friend Mariano Taccola , “ Don ’ t be browbeaten by those who speak ill of you out of envy and ignorance to waste the talents God has given you ” (“ Filippo Brunelleschi ,” The Art Story ). Brunelleschi silenced the views and opinions of others who didn ’ t support him and took advantage of what he was given to create the most memorable masterpieces of the Renaissance . Mariano Taccola wasn ’ t the only artist Brunelleschi impacted . He also influenced the works and lives of Da
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