Final answer:
The correct answer is option a. The theology about and attitude towards the sacrament first began to change when the Roman Empire fell, leading to social turmoil and uncertainty. Influential philosophers and theologians of late antiquity, such as Augustine of Hippo, played a significant role in shaping the changing attitudes towards the sacrament.
Step-by-step explanation:
Theology about and attitude towards the sacrament first began to change when the Roman Empire fell. Late antiquity witnessed the gradual demise of the Roman Empire in the West, leading to social turmoil and uncertainty.
As the Catholic Church sought to make itself the legitimate heir of Roman power, philosophy and theology reflected this transformation. Philosophers and theologians of late antiquity, such as Augustine of Hippo, played a significant role in shaping the changing attitudes towards the sacrament.