The Mediterranean and Mediterranean World in the Age of Philip II

First published in French in 1949, this history treats the Mediterranean of the sixteenth century as one space of sea, mountains, plains, and islands rather than as a set of royal lives. Braudel begins with climate, terrain, and the slow movement of flocks, ships, and grain. A second movement follows economies, cities, and empires in the age of Philip II of Spain, including the Ottoman rival across the water, piracy, and the battle of Lepanto. Events of a few years sit on top of older rhythms of work and weather. The book is a study of structures around one sea, not a biography of the Spanish king.

Bound in full green buckram blocked on covers and spine with a gilt design of type ornaments by Bernard Roberts. Map end papers printed in shades of green. Page tops stained green. Wrap-around colour picture illustrated slipcase.