(Text in LARGE Print for Class Projection) Introduction to the Renaissance (c. 1450-1600) "Renaissance" is the French word for "Rebirth" And rebirth it was. A new age of discovery and the exploration of what it meant to be human (humanism). A period of innovation and invention with greats like Leonardo da Vinci , Michelangelo , and Shakespeare. The spirit of humanism led to intellectual pursuits and study of the classics of Greek and Roman times . There was an explosion of talent in literature, the sciences, music, and fine arts. The idea of the "Renaissance Man" or the " Universal Man " led to an education that was well-rounded in the sciences, philosophy, literature, art, and music. Music was an integral part of the Renaissance. William Shakespeare referred to music in his works well over three hundred times. Quote from the Merchant of Venice : "The Man that hath no music in himself Nor is not moved with concord of sweet sounds Is fit fo...