Humanists (focused on the study of classical languages and literature):
* Francesco Petrarch (1304-1374): Often considered the "father of humanism," Petrarch was a poet, scholar, and historian who championed the rediscovery of classical texts. He actively searched for lost works and made copies of important texts.
* Giovanni Boccaccio (1313-1375): A writer and scholar, Boccaccio is known for his work "Decameron," a collection of stories that reflected a humanist perspective on life. He also translated classical works and studied ancient history.
* Leonardo Bruni (1370-1444): A leading figure in the Florentine humanist movement, Bruni translated classical works, wrote on history and political theory, and advocated for the revival of classical learning.
* Erasmus of Rotterdam (1466-1536): A Dutch humanist scholar who made significant contributions to the study of the Bible and classical literature. He published critical editions of classical texts and advocated for education reform based on humanist principles.
* Michelangelo (1475-1564): While primarily known as a sculptor, painter, and architect, Michelangelo was also a humanist who studied classical literature and art. His work reflects the influence of classical aesthetics and philosophy.
Other Notable Scholars:
* Niccolò Machiavelli (1469-1527): A diplomat and political theorist, Machiavelli wrote "The Prince," a treatise on power and leadership that drew heavily on the works of ancient Roman historians and philosophers.
* Leon Battista Alberti (1404-1472): An architect, painter, sculptor, and writer, Alberti played a key role in the development of Renaissance architecture and art. He wrote treatises on architecture, painting, and sculpture, drawing inspiration from classical principles.
* Galileo Galilei (1564-1642): While primarily known for his contributions to astronomy and physics, Galileo was deeply influenced by classical thought, particularly the works of Archimedes and Plato.
It's important to note that this is just a sampling of the many Renaissance scholars who studied classical texts. Their work laid the foundation for the intellectual and artistic achievements of the Renaissance, and their influence continues to be felt today.