Spain in Shadows & Splendor: Empire, Decline & Memory (5-Book Bundle)

This 5-volume bundle offers a panoramic view of Spanish history—from the grandeur of the Golden Century to the complexities of 20th-century politics, the reign of Philip IV, and the enduring legacy of the Inquisition. With contributions from respected historians such as Bartolomé Bennassar, Guy Hermet, and the Testas brothers, this set is ideal for readers seeking both scholarly depth and narrative texture.

Included in this set:
1.     Un Siècle d’Or Espagnol 1525–1648 by Bartolomé Bennassar
Marabout, Robert Laffont, 1982, paperback, 320 pages
A vivid portrait of Spain’s imperial zenith—its cultural, political, and spiritual dominance across Europe and the Americas.
2.     L’Espagne au XXe Siècle by Guy Hermet
Collection L’Historien, PUF, 1986, softcover, 315 pages
A sharp analysis of Spain’s modern evolution—from monarchy to dictatorship to democracy.
3.     L’Espagne de Philippe IV 1621–1665 (Volume 1) by M. Deveze
Regards sur l’Histoire, SEDES, 1970, softcover, 304 pages
Explores the early reign of Philip IV, marked by grandeur and growing instability.
4.     L’Espagne de Philippe IV 1621–1665 (Volume 2)  by M. Deveze
Regards sur l’Histoire, SEDES, 1970, softcover, 305 pages (total 609 pages across both volumes)
Continues the narrative into decline, war, and the fading of imperial ambition.
5.     L’Inquisition by Guy & Jean Testas
Que Sais-Je?, PUF, 1983, softcover, 126 pages
A concise, accessible study of one of the most feared institutions in European religious history.

Why this set matters:
Together, these volumes trace the arc of Spanish history from imperial brilliance to introspective reckoning. They offer a rare blend of political analysis, cultural insight, and historical narrative—ideal for scholars, collectors, and anyone drawn to the drama and complexity of Spain’s past.
This bundle is also a testament to the richness of French academic publishing, with compact formats that deliver dense, elegant scholarship. A perfect addition to any curated library focused on European history, empire studies, or religious transformation.

Condition: Gently used vintage copies with light shelf wear. A few passages might be underlined in pencil in some books and can be erased if desired. The first page bears the name of the original owner—Elisabeth

One only— Curated from my personal library built during years of study at the Sorbonne., ready to ship from California.

Free Media Mail shipping included.
Books ship separately via USPS Media Mail. If purchased with other items, they will arrive in a separate package.