A History of Modern Culture

Published 1930–4, this two-volume work considers the emergence of modern society in the wake of the Protestant reformation.

Preserved Smith (Author)

9781108074643, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 17 July 2014

690 pages
21.6 x 14 x 3.9 cm, 0.86 kg

Preserved Smith (1880–1941), a professor in the history department of Cornell University, owed his unusual first name to Puritan ancestors who could be traced back to the seventeenth century. His great interest was in the Protestant reformation, and its wide-ranging political and cultural effects in Europe and America. An obituary remarks that his writings 'reveal a remarkable breadth of knowledge and interest and a consistent devotion to high standards of scholarly integrity'. This two-volume work of 1930–4, discussing 'modern culture' from 1543 to 1776, displays these qualities in abundance. Volume 1, after an introductory chapter, considers the state of the sciences in the sixteenth century, then the humanities and the social and political context of law, morality and art. The emphasis on the importance of science as a driver of change makes this a remarkable and readable overview of the emergence of modern society.

Preface
1. Introductory
Part I. The Sciences: 2. Astronomy
3. Physics
4. Mathematics
5. Geography, biology, anatomy
6. The scientific revolution
Part II. The Humanities: 7. Philosophy
8. Political theory
9. Historiography
10. Biblical and classical scholarship
Part III. Social Control: 11. Education
12. Religion
13. Free-thought
14. Superstition
15. Persecution and tolerance
16. Laws
Part IV. The Spirit of the Times: 17. Morals and manners
18. Literature
19. Art
Epilogue
Bibliography
Index.

Subject Areas: European history [HBJD]