Humanism

Definition

Humanism is an intellectual movement that emphasizes the value of human beings, focusing on the study of classical texts and the importance of individual potential and achievements. This movement played a crucial role in preserving classical literature and knowledge, as it sought to revive the cultural and intellectual heritage of ancient Greece and Rome, emphasizing education, critical thinking, and the humanities.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Humanism emerged in the 14th century during the Renaissance, fostering a revival of classical learning and values that had been largely overlooked during the Middle Ages.
2. Humanists believed in the importance of studying subjects such as grammar, rhetoric, poetry, history, and moral philosophy to develop well-rounded individuals.
3. Key figures in humanism include Petrarch, often considered the father of humanism, who promoted the study of classical texts and advocated for their relevance to contemporary society.
4. The movement significantly contributed to the preservation and dissemination of classical works through the establishment of schools and libraries dedicated to classical literature.
5. Humanism laid the groundwork for modern educational systems by emphasizing critical thinking, empirical evidence, and a secular approach to knowledge.

Review Questions

• How did humanism influence the preservation and study of classical literature during the Renaissance?
  • Humanism played a vital role in preserving classical literature as it emphasized the importance of studying ancient texts from Greece and Rome. Humanists sought out manuscripts, translated them, and promoted their study in schools, ensuring that this knowledge was passed on to future generations. This revival not only preserved these works but also fostered a renewed interest in classical ideas that shaped European culture.
• Compare humanism with scholasticism in terms of their approaches to knowledge and education.
  • Humanism and scholasticism represent two different approaches to knowledge during their respective periods. Humanism emphasized the study of classical texts and individual potential, focusing on humanities subjects like poetry and history. In contrast, scholasticism was more concerned with reconciling faith with reason through dialectical reasoning within a theological context. While humanism sought to cultivate well-rounded individuals through secular studies, scholasticism was rooted in medieval theology and philosophy.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of humanism on Western thought and education in relation to its revival of classical ideals.
  • The long-term impact of humanism on Western thought is profound, as it laid the foundation for modern education systems that value critical thinking and the humanities. By reviving classical ideals, humanism encouraged a shift from purely religious studies towards a more secular curriculum that emphasizes individual potential. This shift contributed to major developments in art, science, politics, and philosophy, influencing Enlightenment thinkers who further advanced ideas about human rights and individual liberty. Thus, humanism not only preserved classical knowledge but also transformed it into a powerful force for change in Western society.

Related terms

Renaissance:

A cultural movement that began in Italy during the 14th century, characterized by a renewed interest in the art, literature, and philosophy of ancient Rome and Greece.

Classical Antiquity: The period of history encompassing the cultures of ancient Greece and Rome, which greatly influenced later European art, literature, and thought.

Scholasticism: A medieval school of thought that sought to reconcile faith and reason through rigorous dialectical reasoning, often contrasting with the humanist approach.