Read the selection from the section "The new humanism, cornerstone of the Renaissance." Instead of devoting themselves to ordinary jobs or to the asceticism of the monastery, they could enjoy worldly pleasures. They traveled around Italy, studying ancient ruins and rediscovering Greek and Roman texts.

Which phrase helps explain what "asceticism" means by describing its OPPOSITE?

A. devoting themselves

B. ordinary jobs

C. enjoy worldly pleasures

D. studying ancient ruins