Christian Influence in Italian Culture Essay -- Christianity Religion

Christian Influence in Italian Culture Things are not always what they appear to be. When one talks about the influence of religion in a culture, the person must carefully define what they mean by "religion". Many times when things are done in the name of Christianity, there are other factors that shape those events. The Crusades could be considered an object of Christian influence, but most would agree that the bloodshed that took place does not complement the message of that religion. Regardless, despite the gray area that exists when one talks about the influence of a religion, an influence still exists. The evidence of Christianity's influence on a society can be seen almost anywhere. This influence can be seen in obvious ways, such as the number of churches on a block, the general morality of the culture, or the presence of Christian social ministries helping the needy. However, it can also be seen in more subtle ways. It can be seen in individuals who, because of their belief, choose to affect the world around them. Despite the existence of a separation between Church and State in most Western countries, any religion can profoundly impact the society at large whether through massive institutions or fervent individual believers. This situation can be seen in the history of Italy. The center of Christianity's largest denomination in Rome undoubtedly has an immense effect on the nation. The presence of Catholicism has led to profound influences on Italian society. The piety of Francis of Assisi in the 13th Century, the politics of the Christian Democrats party during the 20th Century, and the role the Catholic Church continues to play in the 21st Century demonstrate how Christianity has impacted Italy in various ways ... ...ch, a political party, an individual, or anything else.? Any of those can influence a nation. [1] Holmes, George, Florence, Rome and the Origins of the Renaissance, (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1986), 45. [2] Ibid., 46. [3] Brown, Raphael, The Little Flowers of Saint Francis, (New York: Image Books, 1958), 14. [4] Ibid.,16. [5] Henderson, John, Piety and Charity in Late Medieval Florence, (Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1994), 21. [6] Ibid., 21. [7] Ibid., 22. [8] Holmes, Florence, Rome and the Origin of the Renaissance, 47. [9] Ginsborg, Paul, A History of Contemporary Italy: Society and Politics 1943-1988, (New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2003), 48. [10] Ibid., 50. [11] Ibid., 121. [12] Ibid., 349. [13] Ibid., 1. [14] ?Italy to push for mention of Christianity is new EU blueprint?, http://www.eubusiness.com/afp/031001190812.llwr1tp1.