2 The Middle Ages and the Renaissance, c.500–1500

2

The Middle Ages and the Renaissance, c.500–1500

Contents

On Defining the “Middle Ages”

Medieval Theological Landmarks in Western Europe

The Rise of Scholasticism

The Italian Renaissance

The Rise of Humanism

Medieval Theological Landmarks in Eastern Europe

Key Theologians

Key Theological Developments

Key Names, Words, and Phrases

Case Studies

The Middle Ages represented an immensely creative and innovative period in Christian theology. The courts, monasteries, and later the universities of Europe became centers of excellence for theological reflection and the forging of new approaches to the relation of Christian thought and life. The period was given an added injection of vitality through the rise of the Renaissance. This dynamic cultural programme looked for the reinvigoration of life and thought of the church and society as a whole through the creative reappropriation of the classical past. As so many theological landmarks date from this period, it is important to identify and reflect on its achievements and contributions to the theological agenda.

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