What does the term Renaissance mean? Identify some of the Key factors responsible for the spread of the Renaissance in Europe ? [British Poetry (2018-19) Assignment 1]

The term Renaissance is derived from the French word "Rebirth," and it refers to the period that followed the Middle Ages in Europe. It was a cultural movement that emerged in the 14th century in Florence, Italy, and lasted until the 17th century. During the Renaissance, there was a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman scholarship and values, which had been largely ignored during the Middle Ages.

The Renaissance was a result of various factors, including the growth of the Italian city-states, the rediscovery of ancient knowledge, and the printing press. The Italian city-states, such as Florence, were centers of commerce and trade, and they became wealthy enough to sponsor artistic and intellectual endeavors. They also provided a social and cultural context that was conducive to the development of the Renaissance.

The rediscovery of ancient knowledge was another key factor in the spread of the Renaissance. During the Middle Ages, many works of the ancient Greeks and Romans had been lost or forgotten. However, in the 14th century, scholars began to rediscover these works, which led to a renewed interest in classical knowledge and scholarship. This, in turn, led to the development of new ideas and innovations that contributed to the cultural flowering of the Renaissance.

The invention of the printing press also played a significant role in the spread of the Renaissance. The printing press made it possible to produce books quickly and cheaply, which allowed for the dissemination of knowledge and ideas across Europe. It helped to democratize knowledge and to spread new ideas, which contributed to the cultural and intellectual vitality of the Renaissance.

In conclusion, the Renaissance was a cultural movement that emerged in Europe in the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century. It was characterized by a renewed interest in classical Greek and Roman scholarship and values, which had been largely ignored during the Middle Ages. The growth of the Italian city-states, the rediscovery of ancient knowledge, and the printing press were some of the key factors responsible for the spread of the Renaissance in Europe.