Is It Weird to Really Wish You Were Born During the Renaissance?

Time travel has long been a cherished dream for many, with various periods and locales capturing our imagination. For science fiction enthusiasts particularly, the prospect of visiting different eras offers endless possibilities. However, when most people reflect on this, they might find themselves wishing for modern conveniences, such as toilet paper, reliable medicine, and a plentiful array of books and delicious foods. At the same time, it is entirely reasonable to wish for having been born in a different time period. The following exploration will delve into why these wishes are not inherently weird, nor are they merely fanciful dreams.

Illusions of Past Elegance

Let us consider whether it is unusual, or even wise, to long for the past. To many, the Renaissance era might seem an idyllic time, brimming with greatness and artistry. However, the allure of such periods often overlooks the realities of daily life. In much of history, life was not as grand as portrayed in historical novels or movies. Access to the great artists, heroes, and other personalities of the time was rare, and the rhythms of daily existence were often unimaginably harsh.

The Reenactment Movement is innovative in a way but it cannot fully replicate the lived experience of the past. We step into a world that approximates historical settings, yet our modern consciousness and technology are ever-present, ensuring that we remain aware of our current context. This gives us a glimpse into the past, but the experience is far from authentic.

Realities Over Romanticization

It is crucial to recognize that the past, especially the Renaissance, was a period characterized more by struggle and ordinary occurrences. Basic amenities and conveniences we take for granted today—such as toilet paper, reliable medicine, and the vast selection of books and delightful meals—were simply not available. Even the thought of living without modern medicine, air conditioning, or flush toilets might be daunting for some.

The tendency is to "goldenize" past eras without fully considering what life was truly like back then. The fascination with the past can often be a romanticization of an era that was, in many ways, challenging and difficult. Therefore, the question of whether it is weird to wish to have been born in the Renaissance becomes less about the validity of the wish and more about the reality of the period.

Practical Considerations vs. Dreaming

Modern amenities and conveniences, while undoubtedly enhancing our daily lives, are also deeply ingrained in our identity. To wish to give up these amenities is to accept a world that is fundamentally different from the one we know today. However, whether it is weird or not depends on the underlying reasons for such a wish.

For some, the wish may stem from a desire for simpler living or a longing for a more stable society that is less weighed down by the rapid changes and uncertainties of modern life. For others, the wish might be a reflection of what they cannot find in their current context. If the wish is a dream that cannot come true under our current understanding of physics, it can still serve as a valuable insight into what is important to us. If it is a dream, it can provide a beautiful respite from the current reality and perspectives; if it is a guide, it might help us find what truly matters in our lives.

In conclusion, wishing to have been born in a different time period is not inherently weird. It is a natural human desire to yearn for what we perceive as better, simpler, or more satisfying. Whether these wishes are based on a realistic view of the past or a romanticized one, they can offer valuable insights into our own lives and the values we hold dear.

As such, we should not dismiss the legitimacy of these wishes. Instead, we can explore their meanings and reflect on what they reveal about our own preferences and aspirations. So, the question of whether it is weird to wish to have been born during the Renaissance might be best answered by each individual’s own journey through life and their unique relationship with the past.