Customer Reviews

The Elizabethan Renaissance: The Life of the Society

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The Elizabethan Renaissance: The Life of the Society by the renowned historian of Elizabethan England A.L. Rowse is a fascinating look at life in this most remarkable period. Unlike many "social histories" which deal primarily with the upper classes of society, Mr. Rowse gives equal time to all, from the Court and the landed gentry to the middle and lower classes, examining in great detail all elements of life. He presents a complete portrait of human nature of this time, with chapters on customs, religion, sport, food, sanitation, sex, and a noteworthy examination of the Elizabethans' obsession with what we now call "New Age," featuring such topics as astrology, witchcraft, sorcery, and alchemy.

It is a truly entertaining book, filled with facts and "trivia," that makes the Elizabethan world come alive. Although some passages can be rather dense--it helps tremendously to have at least a basic knowledge of the major personalities--it is a must read for anyone interested in the Elizabethan period.

I was so disappointed in this book. The chapters sounded so interesting. The photos were good, but the writing was so dull. I tried several chapters and found them all to be just blah, blah, blah. I love this period and have several books about the Elizabethan era, but this book did not have one page I found interesting. I am returning the book.