War and Politics in the Renaissance ((3 Units))

Catalog description

Prerequisite: Senior standing. This course will explore the theory and practice of politics and diplomacy during the European Renaissance. We will examine such topics as the rise of the modern nation/state, the origins of modern diplomatic practice, the development of European imperialism, and the impact of major political thinkers such as Machiavelli and More. We will also examine the politics behind the various wars of the period, particularly the religious wars in the Reformation. We will begin in early Renaissance Italy, and then turn to the rise of Atlantic powers such as Spain, England and the Netherlands. (Formerly 3400:405)