Renaissance Elements from Bacon’s Essay

Bring out the influence of the Renaissance on Bacon with special reference to his essays. 

Or Bring out the Renaissance elements from Bacon’s essay. In what ways is Bacon a Renaissance essayist? 

The Renaissance is a period of remarkable intellectual and cultural growth from the 14th to the 17th century. This period greatly influenced many thinkers, including Francis Bacon (1561-1626). Bacon is often hailed as the father of English Essays. He is deeply affected by the Renaissance’s emphasis on humanism, scientific inquiry, and classical learning. His essays are a collection of keen observations and reflections on various aspects of human life. Here are key ways in which the Renaissance influenced Bacon’s work;

Humanism and Individual Experience: Bacon’s essays reflect Renaissance humanism. It focuses on individual experience and the human condition. In “Of Marriage and Single Life,” Bacon discusses personal choices and their impacts on life. He writes, 

He that hath wife and children hath given hostages to fortune;

This statement reflects the Renaissance view of individual choice and its impact on personal destiny. It emphasizes the humanist focus on personal development and responsibility.

Classical Influences and Learning: Bacon’s essays are packed with references to classical literature and philosophy. He has a good command of Latin and Greek languages. He has taken different phrases and words from Latin and Greek languages to make his essay affluent. Bacon says in Of Studies, 

Abeunt studia in mores.

It is a Latin phrase that means that studies are a part of one’s character, and habits or studies form the character of a man. Hence, the readers should have some knowledge of Latin and Greek to understand Francis Bacon.

Practical Wisdom: Bacon is unparalleled because of his practical wisdom. Almost all the sentences of his essays can be developed even as an essay or at least as a paragraph because of his outstanding practical wisdom. 

Wives are young men’s mistresses, companions for middle age, and old men’s nurses.

From this single sentence of the essay “Of Marriage and Single Life,” three essays can be produced. So, it is neat and clear that Bacon’s essays are popular due to his practical wisdom.

Exploration of Human Emotions and Relationships: Bacon’s exploration of human emotions and relationships reflects the Renaissance interest in the complexities of human nature. In “Of Love,” he explores the powerful and often irrational nature of love: 

It is impossible to love and to be wise.

This reflection of human emotions aligns with the Renaissance. It focuses on understanding and depicts the full range of human experience.

Practical Approach to Colonization: “Of Plantation” reveals Bacon’s practical approach to colonization. It is a significant concern during the Renaissance as European powers expanded globally. He advises, 

Planting of countries is like planting of woods;

This practical outlook on colonization highlights the importance of planning, patience, and long-term thinking. It aligns with the Renaissance’s spirit and practical wisdom.

Ethical and Moral Inquiry: The Renaissance flashed a renewed interest in ethical and moral questions, which is evident in Bacon’s essays. In “Of Revenge,” he discusses the moral importance of seeking revenge: 

Revenge is a kind of wild justice.

This reflects on the ethical dimensions of human actions. It reflects the Renaissance’s concern with morality and the human condition.

Francis Bacon’s essays are a testament to the profound influence of the Renaissance. His focus on humanism and practical wisdom reflects the spirit of the Renaissance. Through his insightful essays, Bacon encourages a rational approach to understanding human nature and the world.