The dominant ideology during the Renaissance period was humanism, which emphasized the value and agency of human beings, focusing on the study of classical texts and the potential for individual achievement. This intellectual movement drew inspiration from ancient Greek and Roman literature, philosophy, and art, advocating for education in the humanities, including history, poetry, rhetoric, and moral philosophy. Humanism encouraged a shift from theocratic society and medieval scholasticism to a more secular and individualized understanding of human experience, emphasizing reason, science, and personal expression. This transformation laid the groundwork for developments in art, science, and culture throughout Europe.