Renaissance

Definition of Renaissance

Renaissance is the period of rebirth of Greco-Roman civilization in Europe, which was disregarded during the Middle Ages. Renaissance started in Italy in the 14th century and spread to other parts of Western Europe in the 15th century. It can be considered an intellectual, cultural, philosophical, ideological, musical, artistic, materialistic, and scientific movement. It gave rise to curiosity and the spirit of inquiry. It is the period in Western Europe’s history during which specific areas of human inquiry experienced a resurgence along with rediscovering the ideas and accomplishments of the ancient world.

Explanation

It is believed that this period represents the resurrection of the ideas and contributions of ancient Greek philosophy, the rejuvenation of the nature of humanity, and the beginning of contemporary humanism.

Humanism, one of the distinctive features of the Renaissance, holds man as the center of his universe. It did not reject earthly happiness and defended the human right to the pleasure of worldly desires. 

One of the critical factors in the transformation from medieval to Renaissance civilization was the transition from an agrarian to a commercial economy. The most significant change during this time was a shift in how individuals saw themselves and the world. 

Renaissance brought forth fresh perspectives on knowledge and civilization. The richness and diversity of human consciousness in the present was a topic of great interest to intellectuals of this era, in contrast to medieval academics who discussed the existence of life after death. During this time, there was also a growing focus on individual success. 

The Renaissance fostered a sense of exploration and insatiable curiosity that encouraged individuals to discover new worlds. This era witnessed the decline of feudalism, the discovery of the Copernican system of astronomy, the growth of trade and commerce, and the invention of paper, gunpowder, and the mariner’s compass. The development of printing in Europe allowed the significant achievements of this period to be seen by a broader audience. 

Example

Mona Lisa and the Last Supper are the greatest works of Leonardo da Vinci which are the outcome of this period.