The book offered to the attention of readers continues the series of works begun by the publishing house of five volumes (eight books) on the history of France. It is dedicated to the Renaissance and Reformation. Considering the most significant events of this time, the author often gives them a new, original assessment. Much attention is paid to the demographic situation, issues of social and economic development, strengthening of central power, growth and development of the state apparatus - those factors that contributed to the transformation of France into a strong absolutist state. The work is accompanied by geographical maps, genealogical diagrams, and is equipped with a reference apparatus. For students , teachers, historians, everyone interested in the history of France.

Contents: To the readerIntroduction. Classical monarchyRise of the ValoisRenaissanceRoses and warsItalian outletStrategic direction - humanism and pluralismIntolerance and the restDecline of the ValoisSplitFamily conflictBreak pointTree of justiceGuise and his supportersYoung power of BourbonOpennessEarth and blue bloodCity, finance, bureaucracyNational ideaChronologyIndex of geographical namesIndex of namesBibles graphyGenealogical charts and mapsHouse of SavoyThird House of AngevinItalian WarsBreton HouseHouse of LorraineAll cousins