The Renaissance holds an undying place in the human imagination, and its great heroes remain our own, from Michelangelo and Leonardo to Dante and Montaigne. This period of profound evolution in European thought is credited with transforming the West from medieval to modern; reviving the city as the center of human activity and the acme of civilization; and, of course, producing the most astonishing outpouring of artistic creation the world has ever...

Recreates the life of the rich and poor family, the housewife, businessman, doctor, scholar, clergy, artist, and writer of the Middle Ages, with insights into many customs and traditions of the period.

"Though the term Middle Ages is European, this book has mysteries from other parts of the world as well."--Page x. "The Middle Ages conjure images of kings and queens, knights and castles, but they were also full of mysteries that remain unsolved today. In these thirteen stories told by historian and author E.B. Wheeler, you'll journey back to Medieval times. Uncover the secrets of the real King Arthur. Search for the Asian warlord who conquered...

"From lords and ladies to merchants and serfs, medieval society was a rich tapestry centered on food, drink, feasts, and social gatherings. This book explores daily life in the medieval era through its appetites and customs focusing on country life, city living, weddings, and celebrations"--From the publisher's web site.

A biography of the Frankish warrior and medieval Christian king who built a great empire in western Europe.

"Stories of pageantry associated with kings, queens, and the upper class have long captivated readers of all ages. The reality behind how these entities have operated within set governmental systems has not always been as glamorous as these tales, but it retains an allure of its own nonetheless. This book provides a firm grounding in the historic political, social, and economic implications of rule by monarchy, including the prevalence of the feudal...

Presents a reference guide that provides authoritative maps, charts, and chronologies complemented by informative essays covering all the major periods of human history between the time of the Neanderthals and the nuclear age.