The renaissance started in and spread to the rest of western europe over the next two hundred years. which style of architecture became popular during the renaissance? how was knowledge of the ancient world rediscovered at the end of the middle ages? what is the purpose of renaissance art? renaissance artists emphasized the uniqueness of each human face and figure, which became known as true or false the rediscovered works of ancient greece and rome transformed the view of mankind in 14th century europe. old medieval ideas were cast aside, and a new emphasis was placed on human individuality and achievement. mankind was to be glorified and celebrated. this cultural shift was clearly reflected in the writings and art of the renaissance. in the last supper, the viewer's eyes are naturally drawn to the most important part of the painting, which is the figure of christ. this is an example of in the mona lisa, the figure in the painting is painted in a lifelike way, which is an example of where is the painting of the school of athens located?