Define the term renaissance. why is there controversy among scholars over the meaning of the term

The term renaissance typically refers to the European Renaissance, which spans the 14th, 15th, and 16th centuries. The European Renaissance originated in Italy and quickly spread throughout Europe and was marked by political stability, as well as the significant advancements in areas such as technology, culture, art, and others. There is controversy in the meaning, as it is typically explained as a time of great progressive values shared by all. In fact, the renaissance, particularly between the late 14th century and the mid 15th century, was marked by general air of "againstness", as explained by Bob Duggan at Big Think. The most powerful organizations in the known world, most notably the Catholic Church, was challenged on all fronts and from within. As most of the artists of the renaissance are known for their work with the Church, the idea of religious art is seen as one of the first areas effected by the change.