The Renaissance, a cultural and intellectual movement, primarily flourished from the 14th to the 17th century, marking a rebirth of arts, science, and literature in Europe following the Middle Ages. Emerging in Italy, it emphasized humanism, the study of classical texts, and advancements in various fields such as painting, architecture, and philosophy. Influential figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo epitomized the era's creativity, while innovations in printing technology facilitated the spread of ideas. The Renaissance profoundly influenced the development of Western civilization, laying the groundwork for modern thought and culture.