Book review of Handbook to Life in Renaissance Europe by Sandra Sider.
Handbook to Life in Renaissance Europe by Sandra Sider (Facts on File, Inc. 2005) is the perfect book for anybody who has an interest in the European Renaissance. It is also a great reference guide for history students and writers. You may have noticed I have used it as a reference in nearly all my Renaissance-related articles!
The European Renaissance is such a vast period of history, that to encompass it all in one book without glossing over the finer details is a difficult task. However, Sider breaks down information into bit-sized chunks, easily managed by the reader. For example, she gives a mini biography for every notable person of the European Renaissance, including author Niccolo Machiavelli and protestant reformer, Martin Luther. Sider also includes lesser known figures, such as Caterina Sforza, Countess of Forli. Forli was one of the few women with a military career during the Renaissance, protecting her family lands after the death of husband.
Organized by themes, rather than chronologically, Sider covers all aspects of Renaissance life. Topics include history, religion, art, music, science, and daily life, to name a few. Unlike many academic books on the topic, Sider weaves together a through guide for understanding the complexities that made up life in Renaissance Europe. Each chapter is includes an extensive bibliography for further reading and reference. There are several black and white illustrations and maps to supplement the text.
Sandra Sider holds a Ph.D. in comparative literature and an M.A. in Art History. She specializes (not surprisingly) in Renaissance history and visual culture. She teaches Renaissance art history at Cooper Union in New York City.
To learn more about Sandra Sider and her book, you can visit www.sandrasider.com.
