SPANISH RENAISSANCE. (See pa^e 424 for Spanish Golhic.) " For God, the universal Arcliitect, It had been as easy to erect A Louvre or Escurial, or a tower 'J'hat might with Heaven communication hold, As Babel vainly thought to do of old ; He wanted not the skill or power."— Cowley. I. INFLUENCES (see page 437). i. Geographical. — The position and power of Spain, arising from the discovery of the new world, combined with the vast hereditary and conquered possessions of the Spanish monarchy, made her the leading nation in Europe. ii. Geological. — Refer to page 424. The presence of very pure iron ore, in the northern mountains, facilitated the develop- ment of decorative ironwork. Granite was much used, and brick was also employed in certain parts. iii. Climate. — Refer to page 424. iv. Religion. — The I^eformation obtained no hold whatever in Spain. The religious aspect of the great struggle with the Moors, and the national character of the church have already been mentioned (page 424). The counter reformation found its motive force in the Jesuit order, founded by a Spaniard, Ignatius de Loyola. V. Social and Political. — The people were a mixed popula- tion, in which the Goths of Northern Europe and the Moors of North Africa formed the most important elements. From the latter part of the fifteenth century the power of Spain gradually increased, until she becaine the chief power of Europe. Absolute despotism was the policy of Philip IE, Jews and heretics being persistently persecuted. Under Philip III. ( 1 598-1 621) the Moriscos were driven out of the country, and this proved a great loss to Southern Spain, which by their hard work had been made to flourish. vi. Historical. — The accession of Ferdinand and Isabella to the throne, and the fall of Granada in a.d. 1492, mark the
