More than ever before the Renaissance stands as one of the defining moments in world history Between 1400 & 1600 European perceptions of society culture politics & even humanity itself emerged in ways that continue to affect not only Europe but the entire world This wide-ranging exploration of the Renaissance sees the period as a time of unprecedented intellectual excitement & cultural experimentation & interaction on a global scale alongside a darker side of religion intolerance slavery & massive inequality of wealth & status It guides the reader through the key issues that defined the period from its art architecture & literature to advancements in the fields of science trade & travel In its incisive account of the complexities of the political & religious upheavals of the period the book argues that Europe&s reciprocal relationship with its eastern neighbours offers us a timely perspective on the Renaissance that still has much to teach us today ABOUT THE SERIES The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly Our expert authors combine facts analysis perspective new ideas & enthusiasm to make interesting & challenging topics highly readable