Final answer:
The Middle English period is distinguished from the Renaissance by the growing influence of humanism and secularism. The Renaissance celebrated human awareness, individualism, and the rejuvenation of classical antiquity, in a sharp contrast to the previous era dominantly focused on religion.
Step-by-step explanation:
What traits distinguish the Middle English period from the Renaissance? Among the options provided, the correct answer is C. Growing influence of humanism and secularism. During the Middle English period, the cultural and intellectual environment was primarily bound by religious influences, where the Catholic Church was of paramount importance and the center of intellectual life moved from monasteries to cities. This period saw the establishment of universities and the increase in literacy with books written in vernacular languages.
However, the Renaissance, sparked in Italy and spread across Europe, marked a profound shift in thought, known as humanism, where there was a resurgence of learning based on classical sources and a focus on secular philosophy and the sciences that revered the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. This transition also saw the introduction of realistic artistic techniques and educational reform. In contrast to the more static, two-dimensional art style that prioritized symbolism over naturalism during the Late Roman Empire, Renaissance art revived classical Roman art's naturalism.