What are some of the characteristics of the “renaissance man” and “renaissance woman”?

A Renaissance man (or woman) is a man (or woman) who had profound knowledge or abilities in a broad range of endeavors. The name derives from the historical fact that during the Italian Renaissance members of the gentry (i.e., the noble class) were able to spend their time exploring a number of areas of interest and knowledge. The classic example of a Renaissance Man is Leonardo Da Vinci who was exceptional asa painter, sculptor, engineer, astronomer, anatomist, biologist, and geologist, and also showed ability as a physicist, architect, philosopher, actor, singer, musician, humanist.

Most Renaissance men were described as a person who was charming, witty, well educated, they should know how to dance, sing, play music and write poetry. He should also be skilled in riding and wrestling.

Renaissance women were expected to be charming and knowledgeable of the classics.