A Cultural History of Peace

The Cultural History of Peace provides an authoritative survey of peace from ancient times to the present, covering 2500 years and six volumes. It explores how different cultures and societies have thought about, struggled for, developed, and sustained peace, discussing themes such as definitions, human nature, gender, religion, and representations. The set is available as hardcover sets for libraries or as part of a fully-searchable digital library. Individual volumes are also available for academics and researchers.

Format: Mixed media product
Publication date: 19 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

A Cultural History of Peace offers a comprehensive exploration of peace from ancient times to the present, spanning a remarkable 2500 years. Presented in six volumes, this authoritative set delves into the diverse ways in which cultures and societies have conceptualized, pursued, cultivated, and sustained peace throughout history.

1. A Cultural History of Peace in Antiquity (500 BCE - 800 CE):
This volume explores the ancient world's perspectives on peace, shedding light on the beliefs, practices, and strategies employed by various civilizations. It examines the role of religion, governance, and social structures in fostering peace and conflict resolution.

2. A Cultural History of Peace in the Medieval Age (800 - 1450):
During this period, the concept of peace took on new dimensions as religious conflicts gave way to political rivalries. The medieval era witnessed the rise of feudalism, which emphasized loyalty and obedience to a lord, and the development of knightly orders, which promoted chivalry and honor.

3. A Cultural History of Peace in the Renaissance (1450 - 1648):
The Renaissance saw a shift towards humanism and individualism, which emphasized the value of human life and the pursuit of knowledge. This period also witnessed the rise of the Protestant Reformation, which emphasized the importance of personal salvation and the rejection of religious hierarchy.

4. A Cultural History of Peace in the Age of Enlightenment (1648 - 1815):
The Age of Enlightenment marked a period of intellectual and philosophical inquiry, which emphasized the importance of reason, science, and human rights. This era saw the emergence of democratic societies and the abolition of slavery, as well as the development of international law and the United Nations.

5. A Cultural History of Peace in the Age of Empire (1815 - 1920):
The Age of Empire saw the rise of European colonialism and the exploitation of other cultures and territories. This period also witnessed the rise of imperialism, which emphasized the dominance of one nation over others.

6. A Cultural History of Peace in the Modern Age (1920 - present):
The Modern Age has been marked by significant social, political, and economic changes, which have had a profound impact on the concept of peace. This era has witnessed the rise of globalization, which has facilitated the exchange of ideas, goods, and resources across borders, and the emergence of new technologies, which have transformed the way we communicate and interact.

Each volume in this comprehensive set explores the same themes in its chapters, providing readers with a broad overview of peace in different historical contexts. These themes include:

1. Definitions of Peace:
The volumes explore the various definitions of peace, including the absence of war, the presence of justice, and the harmony between individuals and societies.

2. Human Nature, Peace, and War:
The chapters examine the relationship between human nature, peace, and war, exploring the factors that contribute to conflict and the strategies employed to promote peace.

3. Peace, War, and Gender:
The volumes explore the role of gender in peace and conflict, examining the experiences of women, minorities, and marginalized groups in times of peace and war.

4. Peace, Pacifism, and Religion:
The chapters examine the relationship between peace, pacifism, and religion, exploring the ways in which different religious traditions have promoted peace and the challenges they have faced.

5. Representations of Peace:
The volumes explore the various representations of peace, including art, literature, and popular culture, examining how these representations shape our understanding of peace.

6. Peace as Integration:
The chapters explore the concept of peace as integration, examining how different cultures and societies can work together to promote peace and stability.

Generously illustrated throughout, the six-volume set combines to present the most authoritative and comprehensive survey available on peace in history. The Cultural Histories Series, of which A Cultural History of Peace is a part, offers titles in hardcover sets for libraries needing just one subject or preferring a tangible reference for their shelves. Alternatively, the digital product is available to institutions through annual subscriptions or on perpetual access via www.bloomsburyculturalhistory.com.

For academics and researchers interested in specific historical periods, individual volumes are also available. This comprehensive collection provides a valuable resource for students, scholars, and anyone seeking to understand the complex and multifaceted history of peace.

ISBN-13: 9781350386037