A Short History of the Renaissance in Europe

Margaret L. King's excellent textbook has long been the backbone of my Renaissance history course. Anyone teaching such a course to undergraduates faces many challenges, beginning with the definition of the Renaissance itself and acclimating students to the ancient legacy that is the backdrop to Renaissance humanism and art. King manages these and other challenges with ease. -- J. Laurel Carrington, St. Olaf College Margaret L. King describes life during the Renaissance with a clarity that is unmatched. -- Maryanne Cline Horowitz, Occidental College and University of California Center for Medieval and Renaissance Studies I am not generally a fan of textbooks and do not usually use them in any of my classes, but this excellent text is the exception to the rule. Students enjoy the text because of its clear organization, accessible prose, and engaging images, maps, and other learning resources. -- Eric Dursteler, Brigham Young University Margaret L. King's book is quite simply the best undergraduate text for courses on Renaissance Europe. It incorporates a considerable amount of the more recent scholarship on a number of relevant topics, including the early impact of printed media, the social and political dimensions of court culture, and the educational opportunities and accomplishments of Renaissance women. -- Edward Tabri, University of Texas, Tyler

Margaret L. King's richly illustrated social history of the Renaissance succeeds as a trusted resource, introducing readers to Europe between 1300–1700, as well as to the problems of cultural renewal.

Writing about the Renaissance can be a daunting task. Not only do scholars disagree on what the Renaissance is, but they also disagree on whether or not it even took place. Margaret L. King's richly illustrated social history of the Renaissance succeeds as a trusted resource, introducing readers to Europe between 1300–1700, as well as to the problems of cultural renewal.

A Short History of the Renaissance in Europe includes a detailed discussion of Burckhardt as well as new content on European contact with the Islamic world. This new edition also provides improved coverage of the Protestant and Catholic Reformations. "Focus" features provide fascinating insights into the Renaissance era, and "Voices" sections introduce a wealth of primary sources.

King's engaging narrative is enhanced by over 100 images, statistical tables, timelines, a glossary, and suggested readings.