Dark Brilliance: The Age of Reason from Descartes to Peter the Great

The Age of Reason was a time of progress in many areas, but it was also an era of brutality and intolerance. It saw great advances in art, science, philosophy, political theory, and economics, but was also born at the same time as the Thirty Years War, which devastated central Europe. It also saw the development of European empires and a lucrative new transatlantic commerce, but was dependent upon mass slavery. Paul Strathern's book explores all the key events and characters of the era, while also counting the human cost of imposing progress and modernity upon which the Western world was built.

Format: Hardback
Length: 400 pages
Publication date: 01 February 2024
Publisher: Atlantic Books

The Age of Reason, a pivotal period in European history, witnessed both remarkable progress and profound brutality. Spanning the 1600s, this era marked a significant shift from the Renaissance to the Enlightenment, characterized by advancements in art, science, philosophy, political theory, and economics. However, this progress was intertwined with intense political turmoil and irrational behavior, including internal conflicts and international wars. The Thirty Years' War, a devastating conflict that ravaged central Europe, coincided with the emergence of the Age of Reason. This period also witnessed the expansion of European empires and the establishment of a lucrative transatlantic commerce, which brought immense wealth to Western societies. Nevertheless, this prosperity was built upon the exploitation of mass slavery, a dark aspect of this era that remains a haunting legacy.

Paul Strathern, in his book "The Borgias and The Florentines," delves into a comprehensive history of the Age of Reason, providing a nuanced perspective on this complex era. Through meticulous research and vivid storytelling, Strathern explores the various events and characters that shaped this period, including renowned artists such as Caravaggio, Rembrandt, Newton, Descartes, Spinoza, Louis XIV, and Charles I. By examining these figures and their contributions, Strathern sheds light on the paradoxical nature of the Age of Reason. He highlights the human cost of imposing progress and modernity upon societies, emphasizing the suffering and sacrifices endured by individuals and communities.

The book offers a comprehensive account of the Age of Reason, encompassing its political, social, and cultural aspects. It explores the rise of nation-states, the emergence of new political ideologies, and the intellectual ferment that characterized this period. Strathern also delves into the social and economic transformations that occurred, including the growth of trade, the development of capitalism, and the expansion of the slave trade. He sheds light on the complex relationships between different regions and powers, such as the rivalry between the Spanish and Portuguese empires, the conflicts between Protestants and Catholics, and the struggles for political and religious dominance.

In addition to its historical significance, "The Borgias and The Florentines" offers valuable insights into the human condition and the complexities of human behavior. Strathern's portrayal of characters is nuanced and compelling, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles, triumphs, and flaws. The book explores themes of power, ambition, love, loyalty, and corruption, highlighting the moral dilemmas and ethical challenges faced by individuals and societies during this period.

Overall, "The Borgias and The Florentines" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, politics, art, and the human condition. It provides a comprehensive and engaging account of a pivotal period in European history, offering valuable insights into the complexities of human behavior and the enduring legacy of the Age of Reason.

Weight: 660g
Dimension: 163 x 242 x 39 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838958558
Edition number: Main