The Italian Renaissance was called the beginning of the modern age. The word Renaissance itself is derived from the Latin word rinascere, which means to be reborn. Many dramatic changes occurred during this time in the fields of philosophy, art, politics, and literature. New emphasis was placed on enjoying life and the world around you. Talented individuals sought self-gratification through art, literature, and architecture, and their achievements would influence future generations for centuries to come. …showed first 75 words of 1800 total…

…showed last 75 words of 1800 total…great European thinkers during the Enlightenment. Its artwork and architecture has defined reality and influenced artists well into the 20th century. The new ideas that were developed by Machiavellian surrounding politics had greatly influenced monarchies and governments of the 17th, 18th, and 19th centuries and still studied today. If the Italian people had not paved the way for the Renaissance in the rest of Europe, the reality we live in would not be the same.