This book interprets Western civilization broadly—continuing to discuss the Middle East beyond the confines of the ancient period. The chronologically organized narrative integrates political, social, economic, and intellectual history. It broadens readers? perspective on the American experience in context with the rest of the world, and helps them discover bridges to other cultures and develop sympathy with their struggles. KEY TOPICSChapter topics cover The archaic states of the Bronze Age, The Iron Age, Aegean civilization, the Hellenistic era and the rise of Rome, Rome?s empire and the unification of the Western world, the West?s medieval civilization, the emergence of Europe, Europe?s High Middle Ages, Renaissance and exploration, Europe?s scientific revolution, and the Age of Enlightenment. For an understanding of the processes that formed the Western way of life.