The Baroque Era

 Fra Andrea Pozzo, The Glorification of St. Ignatius, 1691, Rome
 The fact is. . . . . (and this probably annoys the bejeebers out of all you analytical, anal-retentive types). . . the Baroque era is not by any means a single, coherent stylistic movement. There are huge differences between Northern and Southern Baroque, differences between countries. . . . it can be simple or totally out of control. Even the term Baroque (derived from the Portuguese word barroco, meaning an irregularly shaped, grotesque pearl) eludes a simple definition. However, this won't stop me from trying to define this movement for you: The Baroque Era, taking up most of the 1600's, grew out of the Renaissance (actually, it embellished the Renaissance). The 17th Century was a time of vicious religious warfare, eventually engulfing most of Europe. What's amazing is that the art and music of this time period fail to directly reflect this kind of conflict. What we do see, however, is a remarkable diversity of styles that, (and here comes a heady statement that you should chew on, think about and really remember. . . ) are unified in their reevaluation of humanity in relation to a new understanding of the universe. Whoa! With the Baroque Era, we'll see major changes in music, politics, science and philosophy in addition to art. . . . and it's probably best studied by looking at each of the regions listed below. So, just click on the country or topic of your choice to experience the Baroque!

 Italian Baroque

 French Baroque

 Spanish Baroque

 Flemish and German Baroque

 English Baroque

 17th Century History

 Baroque Music

 Baroque Architecture

So what is "Rococo" anyway?

To the Enlightenment

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