opes of the Renaissance
Martin V (1417-1431)
Eugenius IV (1431-1447)
Forbade the reading of Hermaphroditus, a book by Alfonso of Naples in praise of homosexuality. This was punishable
by excommunication.
Nicholas V (1447-1455)
He was extremely interested in scholarship and book collecting.
Calixtus III (Alfonso Borgia) (1455-1458)
He was a tutor in his earlier years to Ferdinand I (Ferrante) of Naples.
Pius II (1458-1464)
He was a scholar who tried to do his best for the Church. He once said, "Literature is our guide to the true meaning of
the past, to a right estimate of the present, to a sound forecast of the future. Where Letters cease, darkness covers
the land; and a Prince who cannot read the lessons of history is helpless prey of flattery and intrigue."
Paul II (1464-1471)
Sixtus IV (Francesco della Rovere) (1471-1484)
He was one of the most spectacular popes of the Renaissance. He loved power, glory, and magnificence. He was
immoral and frightening; he was not well liked. He was highly concerned with his own personal wealth, but he also
raised cultural standards in Rome. He also used some of his money for public works and adding books to the libraries.
Innocent VIII (1484-1492)
When one of his followers created an edict that the clergy was forbidden to keep mistresses, he summoned this
follower and told him that this was not a forbidden practice and that the edict should be annulled.
Alexander VI (Rodrigo Borgia) (1492-1503)
Fathered Cesare Borgia, a conqueror who made military campaigns throughout Italy, causing much trouble for
everyone. Alexander took the papacy to a new moral low point.
Pius III (1503)
Ruled as pope for two months.
Julius II (Giuliano della Rovere) (1503-1513)
He was notorious for his passion for domination and his ruthless nature. He planned to bring Italy under his papal rule
by military action. He also built many public buildings and streets in order to make Rome more glorious. He had a great
interest in art, but his interest was only because art was a symbol of greatness and magnificence.
Leo X (Giovanni de' Medici) (1513-1521)
He was scheming and clever. He was more interested in intrigue and wars than the benefit of the Church. His attitude
was apathetic to the issues that sparked the Reformation.
Adrian VI (1521-1523)
He was a Dutchman who was good and devout. However, he made no serious reformations during his papacy.
Clement VII (Giulio de' Medici) (1523-1534)
He was interested in waging wars. However he frequently changed sides and antagonized everyone.
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