<human>:  Can you tell me a bit about how the Renaissance occurred in Europe?
<bot>: The Renaissance was a period of great cultural, artistic, and scientific advancements in Europe, beginning in Italy during the 14th century and spreading to other parts of Europe throughout the 15th and 16th centuries. The changes associated with the Renaissance reflected a new way of thinking about the world, opening the door to a more individualistic and secular outlook on life. During the Renaissance, advances in technology and scientific knowledge led to the emergence of humanism, a philosophical movement that focused on individual potential, curiosity, and creativity. This was accompanied by significant changes to the way art and architecture were produced, as artists sought to develop new techniques to express their individualism. There were also great advancements in literature, as authors such as Shakespeare and Cervantes wrote works that explored human emotions and experience.