In the 14th century, the Italian scholar Francesco Petrarca (Petrarch) began urging humanists to study ancient manuscripts, learn classical Greek, and imitate the style of ancient authors. Petrarch argued that the study of ancient authors was central to any attempt to understand the human condition and to achieve moral, political, and literary excellence.
Following Petrarch's lead, other humanists undertook the study of ancient Greek and Roman literature, philosophy, history, and art. They rediscovered and copied ancient manuscripts that had been lost or forgotten for centuries. They founded schools and libraries to promote the study of the classics, and they produced new translations of ancient texts into Latin and vernacular languages.
The study of ancient culture had profound implications for Renaissance art, literature, philosophy, and politics. Artists began to imitate the realistic and naturalistic styles of ancient Greek and Roman art. Writers created new forms of poetry, drama, and prose that were inspired by classical models. Philosophers revived and reinterpreted ancient philosophical ideas. Political thinkers drew upon ancient political theories to develop new ideas about government and society.
The study of ancient culture also contributed to the rise of individualism in the Renaissance. By reading and studying the works of ancient authors, humanists gained a sense of the importance of individual achievement and self-expression. This emphasis on individualism led to the development of new forms of art and literature that celebrated individual talent and creativity.