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The Great Transformation

The World in the Time of Buddha, Socrates, Confucius and Jeremiah
By Karen Armstrong
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Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong examines the pivotal historical period from 900 to 200 BCE, known as the Axial Age, when pivotal religious and philosophical ideas emerged across the world. Through exploration of traditions such as Confucianism, Buddhism, Hinduism, and monotheism, Armstrong delves into how these transformational ideologies shaped human civilisation. Her insightful narrative connects the ancient past with contemporary belief systems, highlighting the enduring influence of these transformative eras.
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Format: Paperback / softback
$3999
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

If you're fascinated by the development of spiritual and philosophical thought across different ancient cultures, this book will captivate you. It delves into how various societies navigated their transformative periods and influenced today’s religions and philosophies. Readers with an interest in historical evolution and global cultural exchanges will find it particularly engaging.

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The Great Transformation

'Remarkable . Armstrong has written not just a fascinating and highly readable history, but one which makes ancient philosophies profoundly relevant.' - Independent

Now available in paperback: The Great Transformation is nothing less than a global account of the time when religion was born. 'A remarkable history... fascinating and highly readable... profoundly relevant.' Julie Wheelwright, Independent

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

The centuries between 800 and 300 BC saw an explosion of new religious concepts. Their emergence is second only to man's harnessing of fire in fundamentally transforming our understanding of what it is to be human.

But why did Socrates, Buddha, Confucius, Jeremiah, Lao Tzu and others all emerge in this five-hundred-year span? And why do they have such similar ideas about humanity?

In The Great Transformation, Karen Armstrong examines this phenomenal period and the connections between this disparate group of philosophers, mystics and theologians.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong has been praised for its compelling narrative and depth. Critics commend its readability and relevance, with Armstrong demonstrating extensive knowledge of sacred history and biblical scholarship. Her writing style is noted for its elegance and clarity, making it a significant educational resource. The book receives high acclaim for its insightful exploration of historical transformations.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781843540564

Publisher: Atlantic Books

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 08 March 2007

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Atlantic Books

Edition: Main

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 35.0mm

Width: 129.0mm

Height: 198.0mm

Weight: 423g

Pages: 496

Collections

Ancient & Classical History Global History History & Military Karen Armstrong Non-Fiction Religion & Spirituality

About the Author

Karen Armstrong is one of the world's foremost commentators on religious affairs. Her bestselling books include Islam : A Short History; Buddha; A History of God; Through the Narrow Gate and The Spiral Staircase.

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