Humanism

Definition

Humanism is an intellectual movement that emerged during the Renaissance, emphasizing the value of human beings, the study of classical texts, and a focus on secular subjects over religious ones. It fostered a new way of thinking that celebrated human potential and achievements, impacting various aspects of culture, art, education, and philosophy.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Humanism originated in Italy in the late 14th century and was closely linked to the revival of classical learning and texts.
2. Key figures in humanism included scholars like Petrarch and Erasmus, who advocated for the study of classical literature and languages.
3. Humanists believed that education should focus on the liberal arts, including grammar, rhetoric, history, poetry, and moral philosophy.
4. The humanist movement laid the groundwork for advancements in literature, art, science, and philosophy during the Renaissance by promoting critical thinking and inquiry.
5. Humanism shifted cultural focus from divine matters to human experiences, inspiring artists to create more realistic and individualistic representations in their works.

Review Questions

• How did humanism contribute to the intellectual shifts during the Renaissance?
  • Humanism played a pivotal role in transforming intellectual thought during the Renaissance by encouraging a return to classical sources and emphasizing human potential. This shift led to new ways of thinking that prioritized human experiences, values, and secular subjects. Humanists sought to understand humanity through literature, history, and philosophy, which challenged existing religious doctrines and opened up avenues for scientific inquiry.
• Discuss the relationship between humanism and the development of Renaissance art.
  • The influence of humanism on Renaissance art was profound, as artists began to adopt a more naturalistic approach that emphasized realism and individual expression. This movement encouraged artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo to study human anatomy and perspective in their work. By incorporating classical themes and humanist ideals into their art, they created pieces that reflected both the beauty of the human form and the complexities of human emotion.
• Evaluate how humanism impacted education and societal structures during the Renaissance.
  • Humanism had a significant impact on education by promoting a curriculum centered around the liberal arts rather than solely religious studies. This led to the establishment of new educational institutions focusing on grammar, rhetoric, history, and moral philosophy. As education became more secularized, it encouraged greater social mobility and opened opportunities for individuals outside of traditional religious hierarchies. The emphasis on critical thinking fostered an environment where innovation could thrive, shaping modern educational practices.

Related terms

Classical Antiquity: The period of history centered around the cultures of Ancient Greece and Rome, whose texts and philosophies were revived during the Renaissance, serving as a foundation for humanist thought.

Secularism:

The principle of separating religion from political and social institutions, allowing for a focus on non-religious subjects in education and intellectual discourse.

Rhetoric: The art of effective or persuasive speaking or writing, which was highly valued by humanists who studied classical rhetoric to improve communication and expression.