10. Reading. Michelangelo

 

 

Michelangelo was an Italian sculptor, an artist and a poet. With no doubt he exemplifies the ideal of the Renaissance man. He was born in \(1475\). Even as a young apprentice he showed himself as a man of extraordinary talent. He started with copying the paintings of great artist, but soon began creating his own works.

The Pieta was one the first Michelangelo's masterpieces. It is a sculpture showing the Virgin Mary grieving over the body of Christ. He made it in Rome and after that he returned to Florence and created one of the greatest sculptures of all time — marble David. It is more than 5 metres high. The statue became a symbol of human strength and beauty.

 

Another outstanding work of Michelangelo is the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel, depicting some scenes from the Bible. The breathtaking fresco is more than \(13\) metres tall. It took Michelangelo \(4\) years to finish the work.

Michelangelo exerted an unparalleled influence not only on Italian artists, but on the Western art in general. His works are amazing examples of High Renaissance.

 

1. Michelangelo wasn’t interested in sculpture.

 

   

 

2. The Pieta is a sculpture showing Mary Magdalene grieving over the body of Christ.

 

   

 

3. Michelangelo influenced only Italian artists.