1) What impact did the rise of Islam as a political force have in triggering the European Renaissance? In particular, what were the major outcomes of Sultan Mehmed II’s conquering of Constantinople and transforming it into Istanbul?
2) Of the various Renaissance thinkers, artists, writers, and scientists, which one intrigued you the most? More specifically, identify what it was about their life and legacy that you were fascinated with? Explain your position.
3) Medieval European culture centered on divine influence over human life. Renaissance European culture centered on how humans developed divinely granted gifts of beauty and intellect. Of the two cultures, which one do you identify more closely with? What attracts you to that viewpoint? Explain your position?