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Leonardo da Vinci: Artist, Inventor, and Renaissance Genius

By: Marina Wallace
Originally Published in  HistoryExtra

Discover how Leonardo da Vinci’s artistic talent and scientific imagination made him one of the most extraordinary thinkers of all time — from painting the Mona Lisa to designing flying machines centuries ahead of his time.

The article "Leonardo da Vinci: Artist, Inventor, and Renaissance Genius" from BBC's HistoryExtra explores Leonardo da Vinci’s life as an artist, engineer, and visionary thinker. It outlines his rise from an apprentice in Florence to becoming a celebrated figure in the court of the French king. It also reveals how his inventions — such as early flying machines and war weapons — were centuries ahead of their time.
Student Article Info

BBC's HistoryExtra is devoted to both British and world history and aimed at readers of all levels of knowledge and interest. Learn more about subscriptions here.

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Photo of a statue of Leonardo da Vinci
© Getty

Most passages are available in three different versions: Level 1 (Grade 3-5), Level 2 (Grade 6-8), and Level 3 (Grade 9-12). Some more complex texts are available only in Level 2 and Level 3. Use the versions that are most appropriate for the students in your class.

Note: The BBC Learning Hub Editorial Team made use of AI tools to create multiple versions of this article, each tailored to different student reading levels. Every version undergoes a thorough review by our BBC Learning editors to ensure accuracy, quality, and appropriateness.

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Level 2 Reading Passage
Grades: 6-8Lexile Level: 800-1000L
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Level 3 Reading Passage
Grades: 9-12Lexile Level: 1000–1300L
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