SelfLFIB8

In Italy, some of these cities were able to gain control of the 1 country and to become city states, resembling those of the ancient Greeks. Their 2 was assisted by the continuing struggle between Popes and Emperors, between church and state, again, a thoroughly 3 Western experience. In these states, the modern world began to take form. Although the people were mainly Christians, their life and outlook became increasingly 4. Here, and not only in Italy but in other cities north of the Alps, arose a worldview that celebrated the greatness and dignity of mankind, which was a very sharp turning away from the 5 Western tradition that put God and life in the hereafter at the center of everything.