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Of the men and women of the turbulent century between the death of Louis XIV and the collapse of the Bastille, who lives more deeply in our memory than Voltaire? Who else is mentioned often? "Who was the real king in the 18th century?" Victor Cousin said, "It was Voltaire." Voltaire's colorful life is the epitome of a century. Let us follow the ever-burning torch to gain insight into his century!

"The Age of Louis XIV" is the eighth volume of the "The Story of Civilization" series of "Utopia Classics Hall". From the signing of the Treaty of Westphalia to the death of Louis XIV. France reached the pinnacle of culture and art under the rule of the "Sun King". Dutch democracy casts a ray of light on monarchical Europe. Britain's Glorious Revolution established the rule of law and freedom for future generations. The theme of this era is the "Great Controversy" between faith and reason. Although faith still occupies the throne, reason is blooming in the new theories of Hobbes, Locke, Newton, Spinoza, and Leibniz. Thinkers engaged in "intellectual adventures," believing it possible to understand the universe and even form a "clear and intelligible conception" of God. They have different opinions on science and philosophy. Compared with the 18th century, which was called the "Age of Reason," this period is more appropriately called "rational."

"Rousseau's Revolution" is the 10th volume of the "The Story of Civilization" series of "Utopia Classics Hall". Rousseau was the direct ideological promoter of the French Revolution. He created nothing but burned everything. "Rousseau and the Revolution" depicts a panoramic view of Europe from the "Seven Years' War" to the French Revolution. With Rousseau as the central figure, Durant vividly narrates the growth of intellectuals, the transformation of moral concepts and social order, the rise and fall of autocratic rule, the disenchantment of religion and the emergence of democracy in the 18th century. At the same time, he provides biographies of countless brilliant figures who emerged in this era. With his extensive historical knowledge and powerful writing, Durant weaves a complex tapestry of great eras and outstanding figures.

This book is in response to Xi Jinping's call to remember the lessons of history. It is recommended by the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection as the "First Book of the New Year in 2015" and is the latest recommendation by Wang Qishan! No. 1 On the "China News and Publishing News" outstanding best-seller list! The American Pulitzer Prize winner's classic classic condenses unique insights into historical lessons! This book is the representative work of the famous American scholar and "Pulitzer Prize" winner Will Durant and his wife Ariel Durant. "The Lessons of History" condenses the essence of the 11 volumes of "History of World Civilizations". Through succinct outlines, it outlines the relationship between history and all aspects of human life. It explains in detail the role played by geographical conditions, economic conditions, racial superiority and inferiority, human nature, religious activities, socialism, government, war, morality, laws of rise and decline, and biological evolution in history. It also summarizes the huge spiritual legacy that history has left to people. These spiritual heritages provide inspiration and warning to the Chinese people in the process of reform, allowing them to face the present and the future more wisely.

"The Age of Reason Begins" is the seventh volume of the "Utopia Classics Museum" series "The Story of Civilization". The period from the accession of Elizabeth I to the end of the Thirty Years' War is a key chapter in understanding modern Europe. Its basic development was the rise of nation-state sovereignty, and the decline of theology and papal power. The results of the Reformation began to appear in European countries. Disputes continued between countries and among various religious factions within the country. The whole of Europe was involved in the terrible "Thirty Years' War." Amid the rift of faith collapse, more and more people are turning to science and philosophy to explore the answers to life. This is the era of Shakespeare, Rembrandt, and Cervantes, as well as the era of Bacon, Galileo, Bruno, and Descartes. It is an era of radiant humanity and an era of rational awakening. The battle between faith and reason that is changing the hearts of Europe and even the world is rising.