Using Isabella d’Este as an example, explore the role of women during this period.

What will be an ideal response?

Isabella d’Este, Duchess of Mantua, was a collector of art and antiques, an unusual interest of women at this time. She commissioned art works from artists of the day and had her own studiolo that housed her collection. She was well educated and the equal of the artists she patronized. Her activities and skills indicate a great level of power in her own life and in society at large. As her details support, wealthy women (at least) seemed to be moving out into the world in ways generally reserved for men.