Succeeding the Middle Ages, the Renaissance was a time period in Europe of cultural and artistic advancements that changed the course of history, leading to the Modern Era. (Source 1) Through the Renaissance, ideas of humanism spread all throughout Europe. Humanism is a system of thought based on human individualism and self-worth that was greatly emphasized during this time period. People were expected to become active in public affairs such as literature, politics, and the arts. (Source 1) An ideal example of a Renaissance man, Raphael Sanzio, revolutionized the time period know as the “High Renaissance” through his ability to convey the techniques and achievements of other artists and make them into his own. (Source 2) Raphael Sanzio was