Why do we put north at the top of maps? Which maps show us the way to heaven, and which show the 'land of no sunshine' or the land of 'people with no bowels'? In 'Great Maps', author and historian Jerry Brotton tells the hidden story behind more than 60 of the most significant maps from around the world, picking out key features, stories, and techniques in rich visual detail to reveal the inner meaning buried within the landscape.
What you see depends on where - and when - you are looking from. As this enthralling book shows, maps have shaped our view of the world throughout history, and are themselves shaped by the ideas, prejudices, systems of power and creativity of their age. Jerry Brotton examines twelve world maps from global history - from the mystical representations of ancient civilizations and the medieval mappaemundi to the satellite-derived imagery of today - to show how, by reading them, we can better understand the worlds that produced them. You will never look at a map in quite the same way again. 'Marvellous historical writing that captivates the reader and reveals the aura with which artefacts from the past entrance us.' Robert Mayhew, History Today 'A mesmerising and beautifully illustrated book . . . Rich and endlessly absorbing.' Sinclair McKay, Daily Telegraph 'A highly rewarding study . . . you will emerge with a detailed insight into how maps reflect, expose and manipulate the societies in which they are made.' Simon Garfield, Mail on Sunday 'Conveyed with beguiling erudition . . . maps prove to be less conveyors of information than theatrical performances.' Andrew Linklater, Spectator 'A brilliant exercise in global history.' Stephen Howe, Independent, Books of the Year
This wide-ranging exploration of the Renaissance sees the period as a time of unprecedented intellectual excitement and cultural experimentation and interaction on a global scale. It guides the reader through the key issues that defined the period, from its art, architecture, and literature, to its advancements in the fields of science, trade and travel. schovat popis
More than ever before, the Renaissance stands out as one of the defining moments in world history. Between 1400 and 1600, European perceptions of society, culture, politics and even humanity itself emerged in ways that continue to affect not only Europe but the entire world.In this wide-ranging exploration of the Renaissance, Jerry Brotton shows the period as a time of unprecedented intellectual excitement, cultural experimentation, and interaction on a global scale, alongside a darker side of religion, intolerance, slavery, and massive inequality of wealth and status. Brotton skillfully guides us through the key issues that defined the Renaissance period, from its art, architecture, and literature, to advancements in the fields of science, trade, and travel. In its incisive account of the complexities of the political and religious upheavals of the period, the book argues that there are significant parallels between the Renaissance and our own era. This is the first clear and concise account of the Renaissance as a global phenomenon, an important new vision of the Renaissance for the 21st century written by a young Renaissance scholar of a new generation.
The Unexpected History of Direction
Through a captivating narrative, the book delves into the concept of direction, both literal and metaphorical. It invites readers to reflect on their own paths and choices while intertwining personal stories with broader themes of purpose and discovery. The author’s acclaimed writing style brings a fresh perspective, encouraging an introspective journey that resonates with anyone seeking clarity in their life's direction.
Charles I and His Art Collection
„Wer die Welt kennt, beherrscht sie.“ Dieser Ausspruch kommt nicht von ungefähr, denn das Wissen um Geografie war seit jeher ein strategischer Vorteil immenser Größe. Mit zunehmendem Fortschritt und voranschreitender Aufklärung wandelten sich auch die Weltkarten und geben heute faszinierende Einblicke in die geschichtliche Entwicklung unserer Sicht auf die Welt. Die in „Weltkarten“ abgebildeten historischen Karten erzählen dabei nicht unbedingt davon, wie die Welt vor 100 oder 1.000 Jahren ausgesehen hat. Sie erzählen etwas über die Kartografen, über deren Abenteuer und auch darüber, wie unsere Vorfahren die Welt gesehen haben. Sei es eine babylonische Weltkarte von 750 v. Chr. oder eine Londoner Armutskarte aus dem ausgehenden 19. Jahrhundert. Lassen Sie sich von den insgesamt 700 Abbildungen verzaubern und erfahren Sie, wer die Personen hinter den Abbildungen der damaligen Welt waren – 60 Meilensteine der Kartografie erzählen eine ganz eigene Geschichte von der Entwicklung unserer Zivilisation.
