"In this book, Professor Begin and his fellow authors provide an account of the main aspects of seventeenth century Europe - from economy and society to politics, war, and intellectual life. Finally, the book dwells on the ways in which contact with a wider world beyond Europe impinged on the consciousness of Europeans in this 'age of curiosity'. This account, written by leading specialists in the field, will challenge those who are familiar with the period to think again about established views, and awaken the interest of those unfamiliar with it."--BOOK JACKET.