The depiction of the Virgin Mary during the medieval and Renaissance periods was important as it helped raise the status of women in Western society. The art and literature of the time presented the Virgin Mary as a human mother who exhibited divine qualities as the Mother of God. The influence of these qualities can be seen in the art of the Renaissance and in particular the "Chartre" cathedral. Renaissance literature also compared the role of Eve and original sin to that of the Virgin Mary and her divinity in being chosen to give birth to Christ. The stained glass windows of churches in Renaissance Europe also depict typical biblical scenes to educate and symbolize faith beliefs. The main reason for the growth of the adoration of the Virgin Mary during the medieval and Renaissance periods was her symbolic power which was brought to light through art, sculpture and literature. It captured the imagination of Christians both through popular devotion and through a theological reflection of God in works created during the Renaissance. She was the image of the "Mother of the Redeemer", depicting the merciful benevolence of the Savior and His mother as a companion in the work of redemption of the son to demonstrate his divine right towards his God. During the Renaissance, the Virgin Mary was the theme prevalent throughout this period where artists such as: Beato Angelico, Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, Bothicellical and Perugino were inspired to paint the Virgin Mary. The paintings show a pleasant, maternal-looking woman holding or caring for her child. The paintings capture Mary as a human being, yet give her a divine appearance. The child that is Christ shows his power by giving birth to him and caring for the Son of God. In essence, providing love, care and protection to the young son of God. For example, plate 15 and frame 23, these plates show a compassionate and caring mother who is humanistic in depiction but larger or more enveloping in the painting than the Christ child. This implies its importance in the early life of Christ. This also shows the power or her earthly influence on the little girl even though she is a human being and not a deity. This gives her a special place in the Church as an earthly Mother who is the most perfect of human beings other than Christ.
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