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Philippe Ariès

Passions of the Renaissance

Part of "A History of Private Life" series

"Passions of the Renaissance" by Philippe Ariès is a comprehensive exploration of the emotional landscape of the Renaissance period. Ariès, a renowned French historian, delves into the changing attitudes and expressions of emotions during this era, challenging the traditional view that the Middle Ages were a time of emotional repression. The book is divided into three parts, each focusing on a different aspect of emotional life in the Renaissance. The first part, "The Rediscovery of the Individual," examines the emergence of the concept of the individual and the expression of personal emotions. The second part, "The Passions and Society," looks at the role of emotions in social relationships and institutions. The final part, "The Civilization of Sentiment," discusses the development of a culture of sensibility and the emergence of new forms of emotional expression. Ariès draws on a wide range of sources, including literature, art, and historical documents, to provide a rich and nuanced picture of emotional life in the Renaissance. He argues that the period was marked by a growing awareness of the importance of emotions and a new emphasis on their expression. At the same time, he shows how emotions were shaped by social and cultural factors, and how they were used to assert social status and power. One of the strengths of "Passions of the Renaissance" is its interdisciplinary approach, which combines historical, literary, and cultural analysis. Ariès's writing is clear and engaging, making the book accessible to a wide audience. He also provides a valuable corrective to the traditional view of the Renaissance as a period of emotional repression, showing instead that it was a time of great emotional richness and complexity. Overall, "Passions of the Renaissance" is a fascinating and insightful exploration of the emotional world of the Renaissance. It is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of emotions, as well as for those studying the cultural and social history of the Renaissance...