The Pursuit of Power by Richard J. Evans: An In-Depth Look at 19th-Century Europe

Summary

“The Pursuit of Power” by Richard J. Evans is a comprehensive study of Europe during the 19th century. The author examines the many aspects of the era through politics, economics, religion, gender, and culture. The book is divided into eight chapters with ten sections each, covering major themes such as inequality, state transformation, cultural space, communication, and imperialism. Evans argues that the pursuit and exercise of power were fundamental to society during this time and permeated all areas of life.

The Pursuit of Political Power
The Contours of Inequality
The Transformation of the State
The Shifting Landscape of Social and Economic Power
The Expansion of Cultural Space
The Emergence of Communication and the Economy
Imperialism and Colonialism
Europe as a Collective Entity

Q&A

What makes “The Pursuit of Power” unique compared to other books on European history?

Evans’ book is unique in its comprehensive approach, covering various themes such as politics, economics, culture, and gender. The author argues that the pursuit and exercise of power were central aspects of society during the 19th century, affecting all areas of life. The book also examines how power relations evolved within Europe and in relation to the rest of the world, particularly in terms of imperialism and colonialism.

How does Evans address the concept of the “long nineteenth century?”

Evans characterizes the long nineteenth century as the period from the French Revolution to the First World War, divided into two halves by the 1848 Revolutions. The author notes that historians initially saw the rise of nation states and conflicts between them as the central features of European history during this time. However, in light of the effects of nationalism on the Balkan wars of the 1990s and the emergence of globalization, historians have begun to write global history that links different parts of the world, rather than telling their discrete stories.

What are some of the major historical themes covered in “The Pursuit of Power?”

Evans covers a wide range of historical themes, including the shifting contours of inequality, the transformation of the state, the emergence of new forms of cultural space, and the expansion of communication and the economy.

How does Evans view the dominance of traditional aristocratic elites during this time?

While some historians argue that the traditional aristocratic elites continued to dominate during this time, Evans disagrees. The author argues that there were significant changes in politics and other spheres of life during the 19th century.

What does Evans argue about the four major periods of European history – Renaissance, Reformation, Enlightenment, and Revolution?

Evans argues that these periods, while significant, were not the only defining moments of European history. The author notes that the Age of Revolution, in particular, has received too much attention compared to other periods.

What is the significance of “Europe as a Collective Entity” for Evans?

Evans emphasizes the global context and transnational history in his approach, seeing Europe as a collective entity sharing many common characteristics. This allows for a better understanding of power relations within Europe and in relation to the rest of the world during the 19th century.

How does Evans address the difficulties in studying and conceptualizing Europe during this time period?

Evans notes the difficulties in studying and conceptualizing Europe during this time period compared to the more defined Age of Revolution. However, the emergence of globalization and transnational history have led to a better understanding of European power relations during the 19th century.

What are some of the major historical events that Evans covers in “The Pursuit of Power?”

Evans covers a wide range of historical events, including the end of serfdom, the beginning of the demographic transition after 1850, conflicts between nation states, the emergence of globalization, and the effects of imperialism and colonialism.

How does Evans address the emergence of new forms of cultural space during this time period?

Evans examines the expansion of cultural space during the 19th century, noting the emergence of new forms of cultural expression, such as the novel and the museum. The author also notes the importance of urbanization in the expansion of cultural space.

Conclusion

“The Pursuit of Power” by Richard J. Evans is a comprehensive study of Europe during the 19th century. The book covers various themes such as politics, economics, culture, and gender, examining how the pursuit and exercise of power affected all areas of life. By emphasizing the global context and transnational history, Evans provides a better understanding of European power relations during this time period. Overall, “The Pursuit of Power” is an engaging and informative read for anyone interested in European history.