Meaning: The quote "Our erected wit maketh us to know what perfection is" is attributed to Sir Philip Sidney, a prominent figure in the English Renaissance. This quote reflects Sidney's belief in the power of human intellect and creativity to understand and strive for perfection. In the context of his works and the intellectual climate of his time, this quote can be interpreted as a call to harness the faculties of the mind to pursue excellence in all endeavors.

Sir Philip Sidney was a poet, courtier, and soldier who lived from 1554 to 1586. He is best known for his influential work, "The Defence of Poesy," in which he defends the value of poetry and literature as a means to elevate the human spirit and convey universal truths. In this treatise, Sidney emphasizes the role of human creativity and imagination in the pursuit of perfection and truth.

When Sidney speaks of "erected wit," he is referring to the heightened and cultivated intellectual capacity of humans. The word "erected" suggests the idea of raising or elevating one's wit to a higher level, indicating an intentional and purposeful effort to expand the boundaries of knowledge and understanding. This notion aligns with the Renaissance belief in the potential of human achievement and the capacity for intellectual and artistic growth.

The concept of "perfection" in Sidney's quote is multi-faceted. It encompasses the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of life, including artistic creation, moral conduct, and intellectual inquiry. For Sidney, the "erected wit" serves as a tool for individuals to comprehend and appreciate the ideal of perfection, whether it be in the form of beauty, truth, or virtue. This pursuit of perfection is a central theme in Renaissance humanism, which championed the development of the individual and the exploration of human potential.

In the context of the Renaissance, the quote can also be viewed as a reflection of the era's fascination with the idea of progress and self-improvement. The Renaissance was a period marked by a renewed interest in classical learning, scientific inquiry, and artistic innovation. The belief in the capacity of human intellect to comprehend and aspire towards perfection was a driving force behind the intellectual and cultural achievements of the time.

Furthermore, as a soldier, Sidney was no stranger to the pursuit of perfection on the battlefield. His experiences in warfare likely influenced his understanding of the importance of discipline, strategy, and skill in the quest for excellence. In this sense, the quote can be interpreted as a reflection of Sidney's personal ethos as a military leader and his belief in the value of applied intellect in the pursuit of victory and success.

In conclusion, Sir Philip Sidney's quote "Our erected wit maketh us to know what perfection is" encapsulates the Renaissance ideals of human potential, intellectual curiosity, and the pursuit of excellence. It reflects Sidney's belief in the power of human creativity and intellect to comprehend and strive for perfection in all aspects of life. As a prominent figure of the English Renaissance, Sidney's words continue to inspire and resonate with those who seek to elevate their understanding of the world and their own capabilities.