What did humanists believe should be the focus of education?

Humanists during the Renaissance emphasized the importance of classical literature and philosophy as the foundation of education. They believed that studying the works of ancient Greek and Roman authors would cultivate critical thinking, moral reasoning, and a well-rounded intellect. This focus on classical texts aimed to enrich individuals' understanding of human nature, ethics, and civic responsibility, leading to well-informed citizens who could contribute positively to society.

The approach was holistic, promoting a broad curriculum that included rhetoric, grammar, poetry, and history, all rooted in the insights of ancient scholars. This perspective fundamentally shaped modern education by valuing the liberal arts and promoting a curriculum that encourages exploration and critical engagement with the world's ideas, rather than limiting education to narrow or single-discipline focuses, such as just mathematics or only religious training.