Early modern Italy, 1550-1800

"Italy's early modern period is still considered by many to be little more than a long interval of decadence between the flowering of the Renaissance city-states and the progress of the Risorgimento. In this comprehensive, introductory survey of the political, social, cultural and economic history of early modern Italy - the first of its king in the English language - Gregory Hanlon throws light on a neglected and influential era.".

"Taking a thematic approach, the author covers all aspects of life in early modern Italy: the family, the Republics, Baroque art, religion, the economy, disease, philosophy, justice and much more, building up a vivid picture of the so-called "forgotten centuries" of Italian history. A major achievement in research and compression, Gregory Hanlon's masterly study will provide students of European history with an invaluable synthesis of this crucial era."--BOOK JACKET.