This book heralds the rebirth of the human spirit in the Middle Ages. In this compact little volume, Hourly History takes a look at the Renaissance in England, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, and the Low Countries (Belgium, the Netherlands, and Holland). After the Holy Roman Empire collapsed, the European nations created independent identities. At the beginning of the Middle Ages, The Catholic Church provided religious uniformity. But the printing press and the Renaissance would shatter the Church's control forever.
As people wanted to understand their universe, they tried novel ways to study and understand life. I liked the fact that this book concentrated on the people that made the Renaissance what it was - artists, scholars, scientists, architects, etc. The Renaissance brought about a new study of and appreciation for the classics of Greek and Roman learning.
The story of Theresa of Avila was very interesting; I didn't think many people avoided being destroyed by the Inquisition. She managed to pass inspection by the Inquisition twice! The thumbnail sketches of the people highlighted in this story were pithy and interesting. In fewer than 50 pages, this is certainly an overview of a complex period of time. However, I felt the authors used their ink wisely, touching on absorbing facts and personalities.
As people wanted to understand their universe, they tried novel ways to study and understand life. I liked the fact that this book concentrated on the people that made the Renaissance what it was - artists, scholars, scientists, architects, etc. The Renaissance brought about a new study of and appreciation for the classics of Greek and Roman learning.
The story of Theresa of Avila was very interesting; I didn't think many people avoided being destroyed by the Inquisition. She managed to pass inspection by the Inquisition twice! The thumbnail sketches of the people highlighted in this story were pithy and interesting. In fewer than 50 pages, this is certainly an overview of a complex period of time. However, I felt the authors used their ink wisely, touching on absorbing facts and personalities.
