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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