Final answer:
The feudal order weakened during the Renaissance due to factors such as declining agricultural productivity, new military strategies, and the growth of the merchant class.
Step-by-step explanation:
During the Renaissance, the feudal order weakened due to a combination of factors. One key factor was the decline in agricultural productivity caused by events such as the Great Famine and the Black Death. This led to a decrease in serf labor, making the feudal system less sustainable. Additionally, the Hundred Years' War introduced new military strategies that undermined the traditional power and prestige of feudal elites. The growth of the merchant class also contributed to the weakening of feudalism, as they acquired increasing wealth and power, challenging the authority of the nobles.