Renaissance Literature and Philosophy

The Renaissance, meaning 'rebirth', was a period of cultural revival in Europe from the 14th to 17th centuries. It began in Italy and spread across Europe, marked by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman literature, art, and philosophy. Key events like the Fall of Constantinople, the invention of the printing press, and the Reformation played significant roles. The era was characterized by humanism, scientific inquiry, and artistic innovation. Notable figures include Shakespeare, Marlowe, and Machiavelli, whose works emphasized human potential and individualism.

What does the term 'Renaissance' mean?

• Rebirth

• Reformation

• Revival

• Revolution

Which event led to an influx of Greek scholars into Western Europe?

• The Scientific Revolution

• The Italian Wars

• The Reformation

• The Fall of Constantinople

Who invented the printing press, which played a key role in the Renaissance?

• Niccolò Machiavelli

• William Shakespeare

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Johannes Gutenberg

What philosophy emphasized human potential and individualism during the Renaissance?

• Realism

• Humanism

• Secularism

• Classicism

Which Renaissance artist is known for works like the Mona Lisa and The Last Supper?

• Donatello

• Leonardo da Vinci

• Michelangelo

• Raphael

What form of poetry, popularized by Petrarch, flourished during the Renaissance?

• Haiku

• Sonnet

• Limerick

• Epic

Which playwright is known for works such as 'Hamlet' and 'Romeo and Juliet'?

• Christopher Marlowe

• William Shakespeare

• John Milton

• Miguel de Cervantes

Who wrote 'The Prince', a political treatise exploring power and rulership?

• John Donne

• Edmund Spenser

• Francis Bacon

• Niccolò Machiavelli

Which Spanish writer is best known for the novel 'Don Quixote'?

• Giovanni Boccaccio

• Christopher Marlowe

• Miguel de Cervantes

• Sir Philip Sidney

What was a major impact of the Renaissance on literature?

• Rise of medieval storytelling

• Decline of classical influences

• Emphasis on humanism and individualism

• Increased focus on religious themes