Which two ancient civilizations significantly influenced Renaissance humanists?

The Renaissance was a pivotal cultural movement that emerged in Europe between the 14th and 17th centuries, marked by a revival of interest in the classical art, literature, and philosophy of ancient civilizations. The two ancient civilizations that significantly influenced Renaissance humanists were the Greeks and Romans.

Greek civilization, particularly its philosophy and literature, laid the groundwork for humanistic thought. Thinkers such as Plato and Aristotle contributed to discussions about ethics, logic, and politics that profoundly influenced Renaissance intellectuals. The study of ancient Greek texts encouraged a focus on human potential and achievement, which became central themes of Renaissance humanism.

Roman civilization also played a crucial role. The Romans preserved many Greek works and further developed concepts of law, governance, and engineering. The resurgence of Latin literature, as well as the study of Roman authors like Cicero and Virgil, was highly influential. Renaissance humanists emulated these authors' styles and ideas, advocating for civic responsibility and the importance of individual achievement in a societal context.

In contrast, other options reflect civilizations that, while significant in their own rights, did not have the same direct impact on the emergence of Renaissance humanism. The Egyptians and Phoenicians, though important in earlier historical contexts, did not contribute significantly to