What is humanism and when did it take place?

Humanism is a cultural and intellectual movement that emerged during the Renaissance, roughly from the 14th to the 17th centuries. It emphasized the value of human beings, the study of classical texts, and the importance of reason and individualism. Humanists advocated for a focus on education, ethics, and the potential for human achievement, contrasting with the medieval emphasis on religious dogma. This movement laid the groundwork for modern Western thought, influencing art, literature, science, and philosophy.