1. The Renaissance Humanism

2. 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

3. How can we improve our world?

4. 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

5. “The Classics” Languages, literature, philosophy, art, HISTORY=the liberal arts and humanities Derives from Ancient Greece and Rome Socrates, Plato, Aristotle, Homer Cicero

6. The Printing Press, 1440: Johann Gutenberg

7. The Father of Humanism Francis Petrarch (1304-1374) Scholar, poet, writer ‘Renaissance Humanist’ studied law, read classical works, located old manuscripts

8. 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.”

9. 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

10. Educational Reform Separation from Church Books were more accessible, cheaper, accurate Literacy improved

11. 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’

12. 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)