Oxford Illustrated History of the Renaissance

The Renaissance is a period in European history celebrated for its revival of classical art and learning. It began in the 15th century in Italy and ended in the 16th century. The Oxford Illustrated History of the Renaissance tells the cultural history of this broader and longer Renaissance, from Dante and Giotto in the 13th century to the closure of the English theatres in 1642. It covers a range of topics, including humanism, war, religion, art, architecture, the performing arts, literature, craft and technology, science and medicine, and travel and cultural exchange.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 528 pages
Publication date: 22 April 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press

The Renaissance, a truly celebrated era in European history, has captivated the hearts of many for centuries. However, its inception, duration, and scope have been subject to extensive debate and revision. Traditionally perceived as a revival of classical art and learning, primarily centered in fifteenth-century Italy, the understanding of the Renaissance has undergone a significant transformation in recent decades. While the glories of Florence and the masterpieces of Raphael and Michelangelo continue to hold a prominent place in the narrative, they now form only a part of a much broader and richer story that extends beyond the confines of high culture, the Italian peninsula, and even the fifteenth century.

The Oxford Illustrated History of the Renaissance takes readers on a captivating journey through the cultural history of this expanded and enduring Renaissance. Spanning from the seminal figures of thirteenth-century Italy, such as Dante and Giotto, to the decline of Spain's golden age in the 1630s and the closure of English theaters in 1642, this comprehensive volume offers a comprehensive account of the Renaissance's multifaceted tapestry. Geographically, the story encompasses a vast expanse, ranging from Spanish America to Renaissance Europe's encounters with the Ottomans and far beyond, to the distant cultures of China and Japan.

Under the expert editorial guidance of Gordon Campbell, the volume explores a wide range of themes that shaped Renaissance civilization. Chapters delve into humanism and the classical tradition, war and the state, religion, art and architecture, the performing arts, literature, craft and technology, science and medicine, and travel and cultural exchange. Each chapter provides a deep dive into the rich tapestry of ideas, beliefs, and artistic expressions that characterized this transformative period.

The Renaissance was a time of immense intellectual, artistic, and cultural flourishing, marked by a renewed interest in classical learning, humanism, and individualism. It witnessed the emergence of new scientific discoveries, the development of new artistic styles, and the expansion of global trade and exploration. The Renaissance was not limited to Europe but had a profound impact on other regions, influencing art, literature, and culture across the world.

In conclusion, the Renaissance is a period of immense significance in European history, characterized by a revival of classical art and learning, a broader cultural perspective, and a profound impact on the world. The Oxford Illustrated History of the Renaissance provides a comprehensive and engaging account of this transformative era, offering a deeper understanding of its origins, its influences, and its enduring legacy.

Weight: 1150g
Dimension: 246 x 189 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198862666