Mutations through Revival

Abstract

Turning from diffusion to revival, we come across a wide range of instances with varying intensity of impact. Historians, who as a matter of principle, dislike broadly based comparative studies, nevertheless make ample use of generic terms which by their nature invite comparison. Thus the term renaissance, originally coined for a specific epoch in Western European culture, has been used with respect to other instances of the revival of cultures which had appeared to be dead. Although it might be tempting to chastise the historians for their sins against their own principles, it would perhaps be better to refrain from further comment and simply review the major instances of revival or renaissance each on its own merits.