During the Renaissance in Europe, significant cultural shifts occurred that transformed various aspects of society. This period, spanning roughly the 14th to 17th centuries, marked a revival of classical learning and a focus on humanism, where individuals began to explore arts, science, and philosophy based on ancient Greek and Roman influences. The invention of the printing press spurred literacy and the dissemination of ideas. Artists like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo pushed boundaries in visual arts and human representation. This era fostered greater interest in science and innovation, ultimately laying the groundwork for the modern world.