England and the Italian Renaissance was first published in 1954 and pioneered a new approach to comparative cultural history. It was Sir John Hale’s first major book and provided the foundation for his distinguished career as a historian of Italian history, art and culture. Since England and the Italian Renaissance is based on an analysis of primary materials and focuses on perennial themes, it endures as an important contribution to historical scholarship. The clear, chronological narrative is beautifully written and illuminates both British and Italian cultural history.

This fourth edition includes a new introduction by Edward Chaney who is an expert on Anglo-Italian cultural relations, the Grand Tour and the history of collecting. As well as providing an introduction to the writings of John Hale and this book in particular, Professor Chaney surveys the scholarship of the past 50 years and supplies the reader with an up-to-date bibliography. This revision will enable a new generation of readers to enjoy Hale’s classic history.