Publisher's Synopsis
This book covers what is, for many English-speaking readers, one of the most obscure periods of Italian history. The common impression is of political absolutism, rural re-feudalization, economic crisis, religious repression and cultural decline. The author sets about correcting this inaccurate impression and bringing the period to life.;Written primarily for history students, the author discusses the major achievements of the era and argues that many developments came as a result of the High Renaissance, rather than as a rejection of its ideals.
