Humanism

Humanism was a major part of life for Roman and Greek citizens in the 15th century. Humanism was the city states main intellectual experience with a concern for Greek and Roman literature. Everything from poetry, geography, and science were taught but a humanities (a philosophical focus of man in society) became the main focus. Young men who were destined to hold leading social positions for practical life were taught humanities from a young age until about 13 or 14 unless they planned to work in a church. Lower middle class boys started a trade at around age 7.

A humanist from the time quoted that, “Without knowledge of Greek, Latin scholarship itself is, in any real sense impossible.” Poetry was a guide and a shaper for men. Humanists loved and valued Dante, however there became a great debate between the use of poetry linked to Christianity. They believed that nothing moved passions more effectively than the power of language. This being a reason that humanism was so valued. Humanists perceived that public men need the art of rhetoric, the power to bring conviction to different minds. This was especially an urged study for princes, noblemen, statesmen, and citizens. It was important for them to convey ideas to the public and persuade them about their ideas in order to be a good ruler. To be able to speak and write with elegance was a clear advantage. Humanists looked to history to see what it could tell them about their own experiences. Knowing that history repeats itself and knowing what they could do differently when it did could only help them further themselves in society and become all around better.