Final answer:
Dante is considered a medieval poet because his work, such as 'The Divine Comedy', reflects the medieval Christian worldview and intellectual climate. The Renaissance, characterized by humanism and a celebration of individual achievement, showcased a shift in perspective that Dante's work preceded but did not wholly embody.
Step-by-step explanation:
Dante is often portrayed as a "medieval" rather than a "renaissance" poet because his work reflects the intellectual culture and Christian worldview of the Middle Ages. Fundamental to medieval society was the concept of artists as anonymous servants, with their work being primarily influenced by Christian theology and scholasticism. Dante's poetry, particularly in 'The Divine Comedy,' adheres to these concepts, intertwining classical references with deeply religious themes which were characteristic of the medieval intellectual climate.
The Renaissance, on the other hand, is recognized for its humanist ideals, an embracement of classical antiquity, and the notion of the artist as an intellectual individual with a name. This period marked a significant shift to a more human-centered view of the world, where achievements of great individuals were celebrated. Dante's work predated these changes, being partly responsible for initiating the awakening that led to the Renaissance but remaining largely rooted in the Medieval tradition. This is why, despite displaying elements that influenced the Renaissance, Dante is considered a medieval poet.
The changes in art during the Renaissance, such as linear perspective and a portrayal of light that aimed to achieve a more natural reality, further distinguish it from the medieval period which Dante represents. While his works are foundational to the Italian Renaissance, their thematic elements and cultural context belong to the era before — helping to explain his categorization as a medieval poet.