In these essays the pre-eminent historian of early modern Spain and its world looks at the character of the Spanish Habsburg court; the ties between sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Spain, the rest of Europe, and the New World; and the decline of Spanish world power. 'Professor Elliott is our most distinguished historian of the imperial age of Spain, and in 'Spain and Its World' he has collected twelve essays which illustrate several of the great and continuing problems of that history... These are wonderful essays, erudite and yet lucid, wide-ranging but full of fascinating detail, żeby a master of the subject. They are beautifully written and a delight to read.' Hugh Trevor-Roper, The Sunday Telegraph 'An elegantly designed work prefaced by a personal memoir of his journey through Spanish history... For anyone interested in the history of empire, of Europe and of Spain, here is a book to keep within reach, to read, to study and to enjoy.' John Lynch, 'Times Literary Supplement' 'Elliott's contribution to our knowledge of the history of Imperial Spain is immense... The author combines solid historical research with a smooth narrative style to produce elegant essays which inform, stimulate, and frequently entertain the reader.' 'Virginia Quarterly Review' J. H. Elliott was Regius Professor of Modern History in the University of Oxford. He is the author of 'The Count-Duke of Olivares', 'A Palace for a King' (with Jonathan Brown) and 'Empires of the Atlantic World'.