Renaissance Influence On Individualism

Back in the Middle Ages, society viewed man to be “unworthy by virtue” and was characterized by an end to free thinking, and strict obedience to the Church. This rapidly changed with the emergence of the Renaissance which represented the revival of antiquity, the “perfecting of the individual” and increased secularism. This period also marked the birth of humanism, which was a newfound interest in the classics. Individualism also arose, as emphasis was put on the man, his capabilities and unbounded potential. This idea of individualism also became of prime importance in the reformist ideas of Martin Luther and John Calvin. The Renaissance and the Reformation had a significant impact on individualism and an individual’s relationship with God, …show more content…
This newfound individuality soon spread into the artistic renaissance, as artists began to take pride in their works, and strive for excellence and achievement. The Reformation led to an individual's relationship with God, and moved away from the idea that the Church was needed to feel God’s glory and achieve salvation. Even in American society, individualism arose as a result of World War I, as people had a significant amount of time on their hands, allowing them to celebrate their individualistic achievements and focus on material goods. The perfecting of an individual came to play a significant role during the Renaissance, as their was a new belief that stressed the idea that one should possess specific achievements that showcased his true talents. A new awareness of one’s capability also arose, as humanism encouraged an individual to take pride in his works and play a role in one’s state. Giovanni Pico della Mirandola, a humanist philosopher, emphasized the idea that a human had unlimited potential, “To him it is granted to have whatever he chooses, to be whatever he wills. Beasts as soon as they are born (so says Lucilius) bring with them from their mother's womb all they will ever possess.” Through this …show more content…
The Book of the Courtier served as a handbook for aristocrats during the Renaissance as it laid out how they should conduct themselves. It also explains the individualistic approach during this period, as people such as Castiglione were writing books to explain how an individual should perform in society and be successful, rather than what he could do for his state. Thus, humanism led to the idea that an individual played an imperative role in society, and discussed how one could reach his true