A World Reborn (Revised Edition)

This updated title in the six-volume, Emmy-nominated Renaissance Series (Revised) offers a sweeping perspective of the 300-year period that began in late medieval times and ushered Europe to the brink of the modern age. As Europe “put itself back together,” feudalism waned and cities grew. During this remarkably fertile epoch, innovations seemed to transform every aspect of life, while the visual arts flourished (thanks to the Medici family's patronage), explorers sailed the seas and found new lands and trade routes, Machiavelli changed politics forever, and gunpowder brought warfare to a new level. Perhaps most influential, however, was the combination of new scientific discoveries and the bravery of religious reformers (setting the stage for the perennial tension between science and religion), ultimately lessening the omnipotent power of the Roman church in virtually all walks of life. Princeton historian Dr. Theodore Rabb provides splendid, passionate narration that brings this historical overview alive. The other episodes in the series--which further explore the topics raised here--are: The Scientist, The Dissenter, The Warrior, The Prince and The Artist. Highly recommended. Aud: J, H, P. (E. Gieschen)