Petrarch

Italian poet and scholar, Laura's muse

Petrarch - Italian poet and scholar, Laura's muse
Born

July 20th, 1304
720 years ago

Died

July 19th, 1374
650 years ago — 69 years old

Category

Thinkers & Philosophers

Country

Italy

Links & References

Born in 1304, this poet and scholar became a central figure in Renaissance humanism. He is often referred to as the 'father of Humanism' due to his influential writings which revived interest in classical antiquity. His sonnets, especially those dedicated to Laura, are notable for their exploration of love and beauty. His work laid the groundwork for the development of poetry in the Italian language and inspired many subsequent writers, including Shakespeare. Additionally, he contributed to the study of Latin and classical literature, and he was an early advocate for the notion of poetry as a reflection of personal experience.

Authored 'Canzoniere' featuring love sonnets for Laura

Pioneered the humanist movement in literature

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