The Hutchinson Encyclopedia of the Renaissance (Helicon History)

This book views culture as part of the broader history of the Renaissance. Thus, the major political figures and events are included and their links to the period's culture made clear, ensuring that artistic activity is seen in its true context.

The 15th and 16th centuries marked a turning point for Western culture--when "civilization progressed from monochrome to technicolour," as Oxford historian Dr. David Rundle puts it. He should know, having amassed the collected wisdom of the cream of the scholarly crop, in The Hutchinson Encyclopedia of the Renaissance. Over 1,500 entries comprising artistic, political, and religious figures and events fill the book, aiding the researcher and rewarding the casual browser with descriptions and histories of the whirlwind of novelties that sped through this period.

Gorgeous photographs of some of the greatest Renaissance paintings, sculpture, and architecture (including 29 color plates) from famous artists such as Fra Angelico and more obscure folks such as François Clouet accentuate the entries and inspire further reading. The book is extensively cross-indexed; this period marks the first intensive long-distance cultural communication since the fall of the Roman Empire, so the cross-links are important and complex. Maps, genealogical charts, and timetables complete the presentations, providing visual insight into this turbulent world. The Hutchinson Encyclopedia of the Renaissance gives the reader a new perspective on the pioneers of our now thoroughly explored cultural territory and may just provide a map of what lies ahead. --Rob Lightner