... oneself through one's own merit and ability. These changes constituted two of the characteristics that would eventually shape the Renaissance – humanism, the celebration of mankind's achievement and ability; and the spirit of inquiry and discovery and critical thinking. Another of the ... causes of the Renaissance was the advent of new technology. One example was the invention of the printing press by John Gutenberg of Mainz. Known ... emphasized mankind's ability as a human and his achievements and potential, adding to the ideal of humanism which was a characteristic of the Renaissanc...

• Word Count: 738
• Approx Pages: 3
• Grade Level: Graduate