this collection brings together original and influential recent work in the field of early modern european history. it provides a thought-provoking overview of current thinking on this period, demonstrating that history is a dynamic process of interpretation.the book is structured around six major themes: evolving early modern identities, treated within a global context; changes in religion and cultural life; the revolution of the mind; roles of women in early modern societies; the rise of the modern state; and research paradigms. each of the six sections contains an introduction by the editors, discussing the significance of the topic and the history of its interpretation; five or six essays are then followed by a ` debate ` juxtaposing two competing interpretations on a particular theme.noteworthy features of the collection include an article translated into english for the first time and the incorporation of new scholarship on eastern and central europe.