An experienced archivist and librarian, Kraig Culbertson holds a bachelor's degree in art history from the University of Richmond and a master's degree in library science from the College of William & Mary, where he serves as chief archivist. Aside from his work, Kraig Culbertson has an interest in Renaissance literature.
The Renaissance, which literally means rebirth, covered the years from approximately 1300 to 1600, a period when the world slowly left behind the feudal system. Known for reviving humanism, this period included a renewed focus on classic ideals along with an interest in realism. Greek and Roman myths often served as inspiration for creative works.
The new humanism encompassed a spirit of optimism that considered excellence to be achievable through the efforts of humanity. People began to believe that the progress of civilization could improve their daily lives, bringing them closer to perfection. These ideas arose in various ways in the writers that worked during the period and were spread abroad with the invention of the printing press.
Important writers of the Italian Renaissance include Boccaccio, Dante, and Petrarch. In the Spanish Renaissance, Cervantes figures most highly. England's Renaissance brought to light the numerous plays of William Shakespeare.
