The Renaissance and Why Its Important

The Renaissance, a time period which held the rebirth of Greek and Roman classical ideas. It led to the boost in subjects, such as art, philosophy, science and many others. This carried on to an ever-lasting legacy, or an impression that has lasted for many generations. The Renaissance is significant for its change in thinking of Christianity and mankind, leading to an influence in art, literature, architecture and more. The Renaissance had many important changes, however the most significant were writing in common vernacular and the ideas of humanism.

Writing in common vernacular was a new, but easily accepted trait of the Renaissance. The textbook states,  “... they also used techniques that writers rely on today. Some followed the example of… Dante. He wrote in the vernacular…” (Bech et al. 41). Writing in vernacular was so influential that others started imitating this action of Dante and continued to do so in the present day. Writing in common vernacular allowed a larger audience to access knowledge, promoting the Renaissance’s ideas farther. Writing in common vernacular was easily accepted, however this doesn’t make humanism any less significant.

The ideas of humanism were a refreshing change from the thoughts of the Church. The text states, “These ideas helped them to develop a new outlook on life and art. The study of classical texts led to humanism, an intellectual movement that focused on the human potential and achievements.” (Beck et al. 38). Before humanism, everyone held the Church as the ultimate power and thought about ‘the end’ rather than ‘the now’. Humanism led people to focus more on the power of humanity, which was a compelling change from worshipping an other-worldly being. Focusing solely on mankind became a distinct factor of what the Renaissance portrayed.

Vernacular writing and humanism represent the soul of the Renaissance. Studying the Renaissance is critical to properly understanding the growth of mankind. It can also guide others to find potential answers to present problems today. Many influences of the Renaissance are still visible in the modern world. The ideas of the Renaissance have spread for many centuries and are inferred to carry on for many more.