During the Renaissance, the cultural movement known as Humanism greatly influenced art and literature. Humanism emphasized the value of human beings, individualism, and the study of classical texts from ancient Greece and Rome. This revival of classical learning led to advancements in various artistic expressions and intellectual pursuits. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo drew inspiration from humanist ideals, portraying realistic human figures and emotions in their work. Literature flourished as writers such as Dante, Petrarch, and Erasmus explored themes of human experience, morality, and society, challenging the medieval focus on religious dogma and elevating the importance of individual thought.