This study describes the period of great changes in European history - the decline in the belief of magic and miracles and emerging of the new way of thinking which has brought the rise of religious persecution, the gradual secularization of politics and the rise of toleration and rationalism. Contents: Rationalism in Europe On the Declining Sense of the Miraculous Magic and Witchcraft On the Declining Sense of the Miraculous The Miracles of the Church Aesthetic, Scientific, and Moral Developments of Rationalism On Persecution The Antecedents of Persecution The Secularisation of Politics The Industrial History of Rationalism

William Edward Hartpole Lecky's 'History of the Rise and Influence of the Spirit of Rationalism in Europe' is a seminal work that delves into the intellectual and cultural history of Europe. Through a detailed analysis of the development of rationalism from the Middle Ages to the Enlightenment, Lecky explores the impact of reason and skepticism on society, politics, and religion. His clear and engaging prose style makes this two-volume work accessible to both scholars and general readers interested in the history of ideas. Lecky's work is situated within the context of the 19th-century historiography, drawing on a wealth of primary sources and engaging with the philosophical debates of his time. Through his nuanced examination of rationalism, Lecky offers valuable insights into the evolution of European thought. William Edward Hartpole Lecky, a renowned historian and philosopher, was influenced by the intellectual currents of his time, particularly the secularization of society and the growing emphasis on reason. His meticulous research and insightful analysis are evident throughout the 'History of the Rise and Influence of the Spirit of Rationalism in Europe', demonstrating his deep understanding of the complex interplay between ideas and historical events. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in the intellectual history of Europe and the development of rational thought. Lecky's work remains a vital contribution to the study of rationalism and its enduring impact on Western civilization.

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