During the
Renaissance, academics thought that a well-rounded man should be proficient in both
the arts and
science. While we remember painters and scientists seperately for their artistry and science, they would not have seen a clear division.
It was thought a Renaissance man should -
- Be able to defend himself with a variety of weapons, especially the sword.
- Be able to play several musical instruments.
- Be able to paint and output other works of art.
- Be forever interested in advancing knowledge and science.
- Be able to engage in debates regarding issues such as philosophy and ethics.
- Be a skilled author and poet.
Because the
Renaissance was the rebirth of interest in
classical Greek and Roman culture, it is likely that these were traits that the ancients were thought to have held. Renaissance men, with the culture of striving for increased
knowledge and
ability, were vital to advancing
Europe beyond the
Dark Ages into the Age of
Enlightenment.
Modern day Renaissance men can probably be split into two sections - the "formal" group, who are the well-known poets, authors and painters, and the "informal" group, who are the geeks and hackers that forever strive to advance their own knowledge, and in doing so benefit society.