The Renaissance began in 14th century Italy and spread north, though was delayed in England due to political upheaval. It was marked by a surge of creative energy across all areas of culture and a shift from a focus on religion and the afterlife to an increased interest in life on earth and human potential. A "Renaissance man" referred to someone accomplished in many areas, unlike the medieval ideal man. Henry VIII established the Church of England to obtain a divorce and father a male heir, taking six wives and only achieving three heirs, one male. The Renaissance saw advances in technology and great cultural figures in areas like art, literature, and science.