Examine the impact of literature during the Renaissance.

The question requires that candidates examine the impact of literature during the Renaissance. Candidates may refer to the impact of a new literature written in vernacular languages, like the early works of Dante, Petrarch, and Machiavelli, and its new anthropocentric perspectives linked to Humanism and Greco-Roman topics. They may also examine the introduction of new literary genres (e.g. the essay) and new metrical forms like the sonnet. Candidates may also consider the printing of books initiated in Venice by Aldus Manutius that allowed the influence of the new literature to spread. Candidates may examine the limits of the impact of literature during the Renaissance arguing that many works still revolved around classic religious topics, while Latin and Greek were still considered languages of culture. Candidates may also refer to a number of geographical areas where the influence of the new literature was limited. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates consider the impact of literature during the Renaissance. Few responses were seen to this question. Those that were seen often tended to rely on generalisations.