Which of the following actions is an example of the renaissance idea of individualism? a. a king demands that all of his subjects convert to his religion. b. an artist dedicates a painting to his art teacher instead of to god. c. an english philosopher studies the french and german languages. d. a writer refuses to sign his name to any of his published poetry.

B. An artist dedicates a painting to his art teacher instead of to God.

Individualism was a new idea that became popular among Renaissance thinkers. During the Middle Ages, the individual was understood by his social place, and the relationships that he had with other people. Therefore, identities were built through communitarian ties. Moreover, religion placed little value on the person, as it was believed all people were sinners and unworthy of appreciation. The Renaissance had a much more positive attitude towards the individual, by exploring the capabilities of man. It argued that men were capable of great accomplishments, and that they could be cultivated in order to become virtuous.