Customer Reviews

The Structures of Everyday Life: Civilization and Capitalism, 15th-18th Century Volume 1

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I read this volume and its two companions several years ago, and they changed my view of the world. Although I am a long time amateur student of history and economics, this series really brings the period to life and tackles one of the most contentious subjects in historiography: the rise of capitalism.

It's easy to read and, although full of detail, calls our attention to the great currents flowing beneath daily events.

I also recommend Braudel's "The Mediterranean in the Time of Phillip II" for a really detailed look at the Mediterranean economy in the late 16th Century.

I don't care for (or much understand) economics. And I often find history to be very dry.

This book, however, was a VERY enjoyable read. I originally checked it out of the library because I needed some information for a paper I was writing...and I was hooked enough to buy this books and others by this author.

Braudel sees the big picture AND the details -- and not only that, he writes in such an interesting manner that I was able to assimilate a vast amount of information before I knew it.

I needed this book for class and it arrived in good condition and in a timely fashion, so I appreciate the time and effort given by this vendor.