Cover of Western Civilization

Western Civilization

By: Jackson J. Spielvogel

ISBN: 9781305952317

Best-selling author Jackson Spielvogel has helped over one million students learn about the present by exploring the past. Spielvogel's engaging narrative weaves the political, economic, social, religious, intellectual, cultural, and military aspects of history into a gripping story that is as memorable as it is instructive. Updated to reflect current scholarship, WESTERN CIVILIZATION, 10th Edition, includes more than 150 maps and excerpts of more than 250 primary sources that enliven the past while introducing students to the source material of historical scholarship. Additionally, the text is illustrated with more than 400 photographs that add visual context. A variety of pedagogical tools, including focus and critical thinking questions, primary source features with assignable questions, and end-of-chapter study aids, make this edition accessible to any learning style. Important Notice: Media content referenced within the product description or the product text may not be available in the ebook version.

Format: BOOK
Publisher: Cengage Learning
Pages: 1056
Published: 2016-09-14
Language: en

AI Overview

Title: "Western Civilization" by Jackson J. Spielvogel

Overview: "Western Civilization" by Jackson J. Spielvogel is a comprehensive textbook that explores the history of Western civilization from its earliest beginnings to the present day. The book is designed to help students understand the complexities of Western civilization by weaving together various aspects of history, including political, economic, social, religious, intellectual, cultural, and military developments.

Key Themes:

  1. Chronological Narrative: The book follows a chronological structure, making it easy for students to follow the progression of events in Western civilization.
  2. Interdisciplinary Approach: It integrates multiple disciplines to provide a holistic understanding of historical events.
  3. Primary Sources: The text includes over 200 primary sources, such as official documents, poems, and songs, which enliven the past and introduce students to the basis of historical scholarship.
  4. Maps and Illustrations: The book features over 150 maps and illustrations to help students visualize historical events and geographical changes.

Plot Summary: The book covers a broad range of topics, from ancient civilizations to modern times. Here is a brief summary of the main sections:

  • Ancient Civilizations: The book begins with the earliest civilizations in the Mediterranean, including Greece and Rome.
  • Middle Ages: It explores the rise of Christianity and the feudal system.
  • Renaissance and Enlightenment: The text delves into the cultural and intellectual transformations of the Renaissance and Enlightenment periods.
  • Modern Era: It covers significant events such as the Industrial Revolution, World Wars, and the rise of modern nation-states.
  • Contemporary Period: The final sections examine the complexities of modern Western society, including globalization, technological advancements, and contemporary social issues.

Critical Reception: "Western Civilization" has been widely praised for its engaging narrative and comprehensive coverage. Here are some key points from the critical reception:

  • Engaging Narrative: The book is known for its clear and engaging narrative, making it easy for students to follow the story of Western civilization.
  • Educational Impact: It has helped over one million students learn about the present by exploring the past.
  • Depth and Detail: The inclusion of over 150 maps and excerpts of over 200 primary sources adds depth and detail to the historical narrative.
  • Educational Tools: The book is available in various split options, catering to different teaching needs and student requirements.

Overall, "Western Civilization" by Jackson J. Spielvogel is a highly regarded textbook that provides a rich and engaging exploration of Western history, making it an essential resource for students and educators alike.