What factors
led to the European Renaissance? Briefly discuss the impact of the Renaissance
on English Literature and
Culture. /How did the Renaissance and the Reformation impact socio-cultural life in England?
Culture. /How did the Renaissance and the Reformation impact socio-cultural life in England?
The Renaissance was a time of great intellectual growth and
rebirth -- in fact, the word Renaissance literally means "rebirth" in
French. This new era of enlightenment for Europeans began in Florence towards
the end of the 14th century, following the Middle Ages, and after the Black
Death wiped out nearly half of Europe's population. During the Renaissance, a
revolution in philosophy, science and mathematics dramatically changed arts and
culture in Europe.
Rise of Humanism
During
the Middle Ages, individuals were expected to devote their lives to the church
above all else. In stark contrast, Renaissance humanists broke free from
medieval tradition to put focus on personal interests instead of religious
demands. Humanists emphasized the importance of worldly pleasures and studied
classic texts from philosophers like Plato and Aristotle for inspiration. With
humanism came an increased interest in travel and the pursuit of knowledge.
Renaissance writers, artists, scientists and other thinkers were greatly
influenced by humanist beliefs -- Francesco Petrarch, Giovanni Boccaccio, Sir
Thomas More and Francis Bacon are a few of the humanist pioneers who influenced
Renaissance art and literature.
Spreading of Knowledge
Around
1450, German citizen Johannes Gutenberg invented the printing press, and with
it came an increasingly informed society. Prior to the Renaissance, texts were
tediously hand written, and education was reserved to wealthy citizens who
could afford such luxury. The printing press revolutionized communication --
suddenly, the middle classes were able to educate themselves. Scientists were
able to easily share work, leading to faster and more accurate discoveries.
Thanks to the printing press, new ideas spread quickly throughout Europe and
allowed for widespread educational reform.
