Sleepwalking into a New World

Discover the transformative history of medieval Italy with Sleepwalking into a New World by Chris Wickham. Published by Princeton University Press in 2018, this compelling paperback spans 320 pages and delves into the emergence of the commune—a revolutionary form of collective governance that flourished amidst the decline of the Kingdom of Italy during the eleventh and twelfth centuries.

Wickham presents a fresh perspective on the rise of autonomous city-states in northern and central Italy, exploring the social, political, and economic factors that contributed to their development. This insightful work invites readers to understand the complexities of a pivotal era in history, making it an essential read for anyone interested in Italian history or the evolution of governance.

Join Chris Wickham on a journey through time and uncover the fascinating story of how these vibrant communes shaped the future of Italy.