The Renaissance (meaning rebirth) was a time of economic rebirth after the Middle Ages. The Renaissance promoted the rediscovery of art, literature, and classical philosophy. In this essay, I will tell you about five main key ideas of the Renaissance.

Classicism. During the Renaissance, there was a sudden interest for classical works. It also translated heavily into Renaissance architecture. They used symmetry, proportion, and geometry because they believed that it was beautiful to have in a public sphere.

Humanism. The study of Humanism was very common then. Humanism put humans at the center of his own universe.

Individualism. This is an idea that the individual is capable of many great things and should aspire to be well-rounded and skillful in many disciplines.

Secularism. This was an idea that you should make your life on Earth as comfortable and special as you possibly can.

Scepticism. This encouraged Renaissance thinkers to ask questions, ponder, consider, and experiment.

In what ways does Petrarch embody the spirit of the Renaissance? Petrarch is considered the father of humanism. According to Lumen, “Petrarch’s rediscovery of Cicero’s letters is often credited for initiating the 14th-century Renaissance. Petrarch is often considered the founder of Humanism. Petrarch’s sonnets were admired and imitated throughout Europe during the Renaissance and became a model for lyrical poetry.”