How did medieval Europe lay the groundwork for the rebirth of Europe (Renaissance)? What conditions existed that allowed Europe to evolve out of medieval conditions?
This article will give you a good start.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Renaissance
I'm not going to answer for you. Look up "The Enlightenment" for insight. And keep in mind that the "Dark Ages" were not as "dark" as we might think. Much scholarship and intellectual advancement took place in Medieval Europe, but usually under the tutelage of the Christian Church. Perhaps these hints will help you, but make sure YOU understand the transitions that took place.
Also look into the invention of the printing press as a major change that enabled the Renaissance and the Enlightenment. How did that take scholarship and the spread of ideas out of the almost sole hands of the Church?
Medieval Europe played a crucial role in laying the groundwork for the rebirth of Europe, also known as the Renaissance. There were several conditions that existed during the medieval period that allowed Europe to evolve out of its medieval conditions:
1. Rediscovery of Classical Knowledge: One of the key factors was the rediscovery and translation of classical texts from Greek and Roman civilizations. During the medieval period, many of these ancient texts were preserved and studied by Muslim scholars in the Arab world. In the 12th century, these works were translated into Latin and reintroduced to Western Europe. The ideas, philosophies, and scientific advancements contained in these texts influenced European intellectuals and encouraged a new way of thinking.
2. Rise of Humanism: Humanism, which emphasized the importance of human potential, individualism, and the study of human achievements, began to develop during the medieval period. Scholars delved into the study of the humanities such as literature, history, philosophy, and the arts. They sought inspiration from ancient texts, resulting in a renewed interest in human progress and achievement.
3. Growth of Urban Centers: The growth of urban centers during medieval Europe led to a rise in trade, commerce, and economic prosperity. Cities became hubs of intellectual and artistic activity, attracting scholars, artists, and traders from different regions. The concentration of wealth and resources in these urban areas provided the patronage and support required for the development of art, architecture, literature, and education.
4. Increased Secularization: While religion remained central to medieval society, there was a gradual shift towards secularization during this period. As the power of the Church became more consolidated, a new class of merchant elites emerged, seeking to establish their influence outside of the religious sphere. They sought to support ventures in arts and sciences, fueling the intellectual climate that would later blossom during the Renaissance.
5. Technological Advancements: Medieval Europe witnessed significant technological advancements that contributed to the growth of knowledge. Developments such as the invention of the printing press, improvements in navigational instruments, advancements in architecture and engineering, and the development of new farming techniques all contributed to the spread of knowledge and the exchange of ideas.
6. Political Stability and Wealth: The relative political stability and wealth generated by trade and commerce during the later medieval period created an environment that encouraged innovation and creativity. The stability brought about by the decline of feudalism and the emergence of stronger nation-states allowed for a focus on cultural and intellectual pursuits.
Together, these conditions paved the way for the Renaissance by inspiring a spirit of curiosity, intellectual inquiry, artistic expression, and a desire for human progress. It was a gradual transformation that built upon the foundations of medieval Europe while embracing new ideas and perspectives from the classical past.