The question asks for the meaning of "Humanist" during the 15th-century European Renaissance. Renaissance Humanism was an intellectual movement that focused on classical antiquity.

Defining Renaissance Humanism

The term "Humanist" during this period referred to scholars and educators who were central to the Renaissance intellectual movement. Their focus was on a specific curriculum known as the studia humanitatis.

Core Subjects of Humanist Study

The studia humanitatis encompassed several key areas:

• Grammar and Rhetoric: Understanding and mastering the structure and persuasive use of language, based on classical models. This relates to option 1.
• Poetry, History, and Moral Philosophy: Studying classical literature, historical accounts, and ethical teachings to understand human nature and society. This relates to option 2.
• Skills Development: Emphasis was placed on developing eloquence, critical thinking, and effective communication through methods like discussion and debate. This relates to option 4.

Distinction from Religious Studies

While many humanists were religious, the defining characteristic of humanism was not teaching subjects *connected with religion* as their primary focus. Instead, the emphasis shifted towards secular classical learning and the humanities, differentiating it from the medieval scholastic tradition focused heavily on theology. Therefore, option 3 is not a defining characteristic.

Conclusion

Based on the core curriculum and focus of Renaissance Humanism, the masters who taught grammar, rhetoric, poetry, history, moral philosophy, and emphasized skills developed through discussion and debate align with the meaning of "Humanist" in 15th-century Europe.

Therefore, statements 1, 2, and 4 accurately describe a Renaissance Humanist.