In this book, Manfred F. Bukofzer has taken a comprehensive look at the Baroque era of music, and will prove a fascinating read for anyone with an interest in the history of music. There are twelve extensive key chapters in this book: Renaissance versus Baroque Music; Early Baroque In Italy; Early and Middle Baroque in the Northern Countries; Italian Music of the Middle Baroque; French Music Under the Absolutism; English Music During the Commonwealth and Restoration; Late Baroque: Luxuriant Counterpoint and Concerto Style; Fusion of National Styles: Bach; Coordination of National Styles: Handel; Form in Baroque Music; Musical Thought of the Baroque Era; Sociology of Baroque Music. Each of these chapters are split into various sub-chapters, and also included is a useful appendices.