The Renaissance was one of the most creative times in world, cultural, political, economic, and social history. Overall the Renaissance contributed a demand for learning and information in a time of darkness and ignorance. The humanists alone helped to encourage learning by spreading their values and beliefs throughout Europe. The Humanists believed that the cultivation of the mind and the encouragement of learning would mean a greater sense of self-worth and a more well rounded, stable society. The humanists wanted those who wanted to be considered citizens to recapture learning and the culture of Ancient Greece and Rome. They were also One great improvement on society was the emphasis of the individual.
Many leaders of the Renaissance felt that A greater emphasis on the individual also included a study on the arts of the past. One part of finding oneself included the study of non-religious since secular things became more popular. This was the beginning of the idea of the separation of church and state, which is present todays government. The printing press of the Renaissance has evolved into a present way of communication. Papermaking and block printing although present in China since the eight century became popularized during the Renaissance since it was a time where information was recognized as valuable. The printing press helped with the spread of information through poetry and prose throughout the Renaissance.
New ideas reached people in a shorter amount of time. Today information can be delivered in a matter of seconds. This would not be possible if the spreading of knowledge was discouraged during the Renaissance. The new economy that flourished during the Renaissance has influenced modern day society. Towns arose and the people of the towns, influenced by the spirit of individualism influencing the group, established a self-governing community. The middle class and bourgeoisie societies that were established then, exist today.
A spirit of wealth flourished during the renaissance. In previous years, people were used to having just enough money, which was sometimes not enough, to survive. It became common to display wealth that had been accumulated. This spirit is present to todays society. When you see music videos today you see everyone trying to have the most expensive cars and jewelry on display. There was a rush to become a patron of the arts, which helped spread a love for the arts. Artists worked on commission for their work.
This offered a sense of protection for the artist and their work because they knew their work would be on display in cathedrals, villas, city squares and even homes. The work of Leonardo da Vinci, Raphael, and Michelangelo as well as other artists influenced people today as well people in the Renaissance. The artistic styles showed more realism. The new works included black faces as saints, kings, and everyday people. The combination of music and poetry became popular therefore; music was less religious and more secular. The printing press, ideas of the humanists and the new economy helped to promote the arts and the spirit of individualism that flourished during the renaissance.
Patrons of the arts, and the actual artwork they produced have stayed popular today.