Question

The Growth of Humanism
The Growth of Humanism
The seeds of Renaissance humanism began in the time of Petrarch (1304–1374), the Italian poet and scholar. In monasteries, Petrarch uncovered carefully transcribed literature from ancient Rome. His studies led him to conclude that human thinking and activity on Earth was as important as religious ideas views of divine power and the afterlife. Petrarch promoted studia humanitatis, or human teachings, including both civic and moral values.

By the mid-1400s, Italian intellectuals embraced classical literature and the study of vernacular literature, writings in Italian, not Latin or Greek. The wealthy studied art, educated themselves, and studied history. During this period, Florence, Italy was the center of a humanist lifestyle.

Pico della Mirandola's essay “Oration on the Dignity of Man” popularized humanist ideas of love and beauty, and the idea that people could attain salvation through their own acts. Artists in Florence brought humanist ideas into their paintings, sculptures, and architecture. Leonardo Da Vinci believed that everything he saw brought him knowledge and studied nature, science, and engineering. That knowledge brought depth and life to his paintings and sculptures. Michelangelo’s paintings on the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel in Rome show realistic human figures that evoke every human emotion. Renaissance humanism blossomed into artistic and individualistic masterpieces.

Humanist arts included mathematics and science, too. The liberal arts that developed during the Renaissance helped people understand nature and humanity. Once individuals began to explore their world and open their minds to other ideas, some scholars began to challenge loder beliefs using mathematics, logic, and scientific observation.

Multiple Choice Question
Which statement demonstrates the main ideas of humanism?

A.
Humans rely on the teachings of religions and each other for emotional strength.

B.
Humans can improve their intellectual skills by studying Roman and Greek literature.

C.
Humans respect and believe political leaders who inspire civic and moral duty.

D.
Humans are moral and civic individuals who believe love and beauty will guide them to find salvation.

Answer 1

B

Explanation: Renaissance humanism emphasized studying classical (Roman and Greek) literature and the studia humanitatis to develop intellectual, moral, and civic abilities — exactly what option B states.