'Above all he is guided by a central thread, which is the growth of power in the state and the reflection of this is the development of political ideas.'The Times Education Supplement (of the previous edition) 'The two new chapters dealing with east-central Europe and European expanion, coupled with the addition of several primary documents and extensive reading lists, combine to make this a valid textbook and useful introduction to the period' History "significant updating...gives a new lease of life to a valued old friend...the result deserves to hold its place amongst introductory books for the period" English Historical Review