The period of intense intellectual and artistic endeavor known as the Renaissance began in Italy in the mid-fourteenth century and centered on the

While religious themes were significant during the Renaissance, the movement was not solely focused on Christian sources. Instead, it embraced a broader range of classical texts from antiquity, including works from Greek and Roman philosophy, which influenced theological thought but did not limit itself to exclusively Christian literature.

The Renaissance did not entirely reject historical modes; rather, it sought to revive and reinterpret the art and literature of classical antiquity. Artists and writers of the period drew inspiration from ancient styles, leading to a blend of old and new rather than a complete dismissal of previous forms.

The Renaissance was characterized by a complex relationship with religious texts and images. While there was a movement for reform in biblical interpretation, especially with the advent of humanism, the overall trend included a rich use of visual art in religious contexts rather than a blanket rejection of images in worship.