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Explain The Conditions That Contributed To The Rise Of Italian Renaissance

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There were several conditions that contributed to the rise of the Italian Renaissance. First are the Crusades, the holy wars fought between the Christians and the Muslims. Over time, the Crusades opened up multiple new trade routes, especially in the city-states of Italy. Their prime geographical location resulted in the Europeans coming in contact with foreign cultures. Acquiring exotic goods and ideas from the eastern world had a great impact on Europe during the Dark Ages. Secondly, the scandals of the Roman Catholic Church during the Medieval Ages lead to the Renaissance. People started to notice the Church's corruption, doubting their ultimate authority over every aspect of European culture and society. This resulted in many developing a secular outlook, rather than being heavily dependent on the Church. Third is the growth in wealth and population of the middle class. As their fortunes improved and began to accumulate money, they could spend it on things other than their basic needs. Their desires stimulated the European life economically and culturally. With the emerging capitalist society, individuals publicly exposed their wealth and others were motivated to emulate this expensive living. Lastly, the healthy competition between the upper class for status, gave rise to the Renaissance. Serving as patrons to artists, the wealthy began to compete in sponsoring the best artworks. While artists achieved public …show more content…

By reviving the classical Greco-Roman texts, people detached from their medieval mindsets. Renaissance humanism separated politics with the Church, suggesting that the Church should guide only spiritual matters. Humanism promoted the glorification of human being, giving them more confidence. Humanism also stressed the philosophy of enjoying life on earth, rather than focusing on preparing for the

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