Europe

A reflection on the life of one of the most colourful Habsburg rulers the 'Last Knight', Maximilian.

Robin Briggs believes some historians produce more fantasies than the witches they study.

John Rohl reveals monarchical mentalities and structures in Imperial Germany.

John Harbron argues the Austro-Hungarian navy, manned by multi-national crews, not only worked, but worked well in the First World War.

Diana Webb looks into the pleasures and pitfalls of an early tourist experience.

Richard Hodges soaks up the atmosphere at the Temple of Aphrodite, Knidos.

Anne Laurence takes a look at a history course which compares the cultures of 17th century Britain and France.

Steven Gunn explores the surprising similarities between the impetuous Valois duke and the cautious Tudor pragmatist.

Trade may have followed the flag, but was there enough stimulus in imperialism to aid national bank balances and development from 1500 onwards? Patrick O'Brien sifts the evidence.

Graham Darby spins a thread to guide you through the labyrinth of The Causes of the Thirty Years War.