How did the focus of artists and writers during the Renaissance differ from that in the Middle Ages?

The focus of artists and writers during the Renaissance shifted significantly from the themes prevalent in the Middle Ages, emphasizing human experiences, individualism, and secular subjects. While the Middle Ages predominantly highlighted religious themes and spiritual matters, artists and writers in the Renaissance began to explore and celebrate the human condition, emotions, and the natural world. This era marked a renewed interest in classical antiquity, leading to a greater appreciation for humanism, which centered on human potential and achievements.

Literature and art from the Renaissance often depicted everyday life, personal experiences, and aspirational ideals, thereby illustrating a more diverse and human-centric approach compared to the largely theocentric focus of the Middle Ages. This change reflected broader shifts in cultural, philosophical, and intellectual thought during the Renaissance, as society began to value individual achievement and the study of classical texts that emphasized human experiences and emotions.