The European Renaissance, beginning in 14th-century Italy, marked a cultural rebirth characterized by the rise of humanism, individualism, and secularism, transforming education, art, and literature. Influenced by classical antiquity, this period saw advancements in various fields, alongside notable figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo, who embodied the era's ideals. The introduction of the printing press revolutionized knowledge dissemination, making literature more accessible and fostering a more literate society.