The Renaissance Man The term "Renaissance man" comes from fifteenth-century Italy and refers to the idea of a person with knowledge and skills in a number of different areas. No one defines the idea of a Renaissance man better than Leonardo da Vinci; an artist, scientist, architect, engineer, and inventor. Although Leonardo da Vinci is most famous for his works as an artist, he actually spent a lot more time working on his endeavors in science and technology. But his detailed sketches and artistry played a large role in his inventions, and his sketchbooks later provided evidence that da Vinci had envisioned many ideas long before the technology to build them actually existed, he was quite brilliant. …show more content…
Da Vinci seemed truly excited by the possibility of people soaring through the skies like birds. One of da Vinci’s most famous inventions, the flying machine (also known as the "ornithopter") displays his powers of observation and imagination, as well as his enthusiasm for the potential of flight. The design for this invention is inspired by the flight of winged animals, which da Vinci hoped to replicate. In fact, in his notes, he mentions that bats are the main source of inspiration for the design. The design of the bat truly shines through; the two wings of the device feature pointed ends commonly associated with the winged creature. Da Vinci’s flying machine had a wingspan that exceeded 33 feet, and the frame was to be made of pine covered in raw silk to create a light but sturdy