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The Renaissance. Humanism. System of thought. Humanism is a learning philosophy concerned with human interests and values. The individual (rather than his/her group) is important and relevant to society. Educational mindset focused on the humanities. How can we improve our world?.
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The Renaissance Humanism
System of thought • Humanism is a learning philosophy concerned with human interests and values. • The individual (rather than his/her group) is important and relevant to society. • Educational mindset focused on the humanities
Return to Antiquity • Study of ‘ancient’ classical literature and languages • A forward-thinking community=humans are intelligent and capable • Public optimism for positive change and growth
“The Classics” • Languages, literature, philosophy, art, HISTORY=the liberal arts and humanities • Derives from Ancient Greece and Rome • Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Homer • Cicero
The Father of Humanism • Francis Petrarch (1304-1374) • Scholar, poet, writer • ‘Renaissance Humanist’ • studied law, read classical works, located old manuscripts
His influence • People began searching for ancient works • Embraced this ideology as a way of life, stressing the importance of the individual • Manuscripts were worth $$ • “Do as the ancient Romans did and study humankind.”
Cicero (106-43 B.C.E.) • Roman constitutionalist, orator, lawyer, philosopher, political theorist • The art of the refined letter • Ciceronian ideal: A good Christian and active member of society, trained in eloquence, rhetoric, writing • Innate rights
Educational Reform • Separation from Church • Books were more accessible, cheaper, accurate • Literacy improved
Desiderius Erasmus (1466-1536) • Catholic Priest and theologian in Netherlands, educated region • Classical scholar • Produced satires criticizing the Church’s abuses • Believed in ‘free will’
The Praise of Folly • "I am she—the only she, I may say—whose divine influence makes gods and men rejoice." (7) • "Why am not I of right named and venerated as the alpha of all gods, who single-handed bestow all things on all men?" (14) • "Folly is the one thing that makes fleeting youth linger and keeps ugly old age away." (19) • "In sum, no society, no union in life, could be either pleasant or lasting without me." (28)