Which era's music primarily emphasized text in melodic composition?

The Renaissance era's music is particularly known for the emphasis on text in melodic composition. During this period, composers sought to create music that not only complemented the text but also highlighted its meaning and emotional content. This was a time when the clarity of the words became paramount, leading to the development of techniques such as word painting, where the music reflects the literal meaning of the lyrics.

In vocal music, especially in the form of madrigals and motets, a strong focus was placed on the relationship between music and poetry. The increased interest in humanism during the Renaissance encouraged composers to explore themes of love, nature, and human expression through their music, further solidifying the importance of text.

In contrast, while the other eras mentioned also incorporated text, they did not do so with the same level of emphasis or clarity. Medieval music, for example, often prioritized chant and modal systems, whereas the Baroque era focused more on the dramatic aspects of performance, utilizing ornamentation and complex counterpoint. The Classical period emphasized balance and form, sometimes at the expense of text clarity in instrumental music. Thus, the Renaissance stands out for its notable dedication to marrying melody with textual expression.