The effect of the Renaissance on European art and culture was profound, as it catalyzed a transformation in artistic expression and intellectual thought. Artists began to prioritize realism, perspective, and human emotion, leading to groundbreaking achievements in painting, sculpture, and architecture. Figures such as Michelangelo and Botticelli exemplified this shift with their emphasis on the human form and classical themes. The Renaissance also fostered advancements in literature, with writers like Dante and Shakespeare exploring human experience and emotion. Overall, the Renaissance facilitated a cultural revival that emphasized observation and inquiry, laying the groundwork for the modern era.