"This volume would be a useful tool in an academic library providing students of the period with a valuable source of both traditional and new thought on the Renaissance world. The essays are involved and need to be considered in some detail to fully appreciate the scholarly thought. Perhaps most useful as a stepping-stone to further study, it is an excellent volume that deserves shelf space in all non-specialist academic libraries and libraries that serve history lovers." Louise Ellis-Barrett, Assistant Librarian, Dulwich College, London "This companion sets new agendas for research and explores some refreshing ways of thinking about the Renaissance. Contributors include scholars from many disciplines. Recommended for scholars, researchers, upper-division under-graduates and graduates students" Choice "This most impressive volume deserves considerable praise. The editor, in his helpful and wide-ranging introduction, ensures a fascinating and valuable volume." Journal of European Studies "This Companion (with notes, and a rich composite bibliography) is strongest on social history and literature, as well as for historical insights and literary merits" History Today "The articles are not simply factual summaries: they all have their own arguments, and many of them suggest places where the present state of knowledge is inadequate, so that the book is rich in suggestions for further research.... Ruggiero asks his readers to "applaud if you have enjoyed our performance"; yes, it is greatly enjoyable." John Considine, University of Alberta