The Renaissance grew from the cultural ash of the Dark Ages. After centuries of stagnation, man rediscovered reason, reality––and himself. The result was an unprecedented explosion of intellectual energy In the arts, sciences, and humanities. What made this metamorphosis possible? What are the lessons we can learn for bringing reason back to our own culture and creating a second renaissance? This course in intellectual history addresses these questions by tracing the genesis of the Renaissance. Mr. Lewis examines the crucial ideas, thinking methods, and achievements that brought on the Renaissance, as he discusses the men who made it possible.