REVIVAL (5 letters) The term Renaissance, literally meaning 'REBIRTH', is a period of European history that began in the 14th century and lasted until the 17th century. During this time, there was a REVIVAL of interest in the classical learning and values of ancient Greece and Rome. This period saw a great flourishing of the arts, literature, philosophy, science, and exploration. It was a time of great creativity and innovation, and it laid the foundations for the modern world.