Top Picks
Bestsellers
17th Century
16th Century
Europe
European Books
Modern (16th-21st Centuries)
Modern History Books
Discover the Best 17th Century Books: History, Ideas, and Literature
The 17th century stands as one of history’s most transformative eras, marked by groundbreaking scientific discoveries, seismic political shifts, and vibrant cultural life across Europe and beyond. Whether you’re a student of early modern period studies, a history enthusiast, or someone fascinated by seventeenth-century social history, this collection offers a dynamic selection of the best 17th century books to help you explore every facet of this pivotal time. Here, you can buy 17th century books, including used and discount 17th century history books, all thoughtfully curated for readers seeking both depth and discovery.
Explore 17th-Century Political Thought and Social Change
The 17th century was a stage for revolution, reform, and the reimagining of societies. If you’re interested in the era’s seismic political changes, you’ll find top-rated 17th century literature and insightful accounts of social upheaval in these volumes:
- The English Civil War: A People's History offers a compelling, ground-level perspective on one of the century’s defining conflicts. Diane Purkiss’s narrative brings to life the ordinary men and women who shaped the course of English—and global—history.
- By Permission of Heaven: the True Story of the Great Fire of London uncovers the drama and aftermath of the Great Fire, a catastrophe that transformed the city and influenced Restoration literature and urban life.
- Europe in the Seventeenth Century (2nd Edition) serves as an essential overview for anyone looking to understand the broad sweep of seventeenth-century social history and the varied political landscapes of the age.
These titles are ideal if you want the best books on 17th century Europe or are seeking to deepen your knowledge of 17th-century political thought and the forces that shaped the modern world.
Science, Philosophy, and Revolutionary Ideas
The early modern period was a golden age for science and philosophy, laying foundations that continue to influence us today. For readers fascinated by the intellectual leaps of the time, consider these landmark works:
- Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries of the 17th Century provides an accessible, illustrated survey of the innovations that propelled humanity forward, perfect for those curious about early modern science and technology.
- The Philosophy of Spinoza: Unfolding the Latent Processes of His Reasoning delves into the mind of one of the 17th century’s most influential thinkers, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the roots of Enlightenment philosophy.
These books are essential for students and lifelong learners who want to buy 17th century books that detail how curiosity and critical thinking changed the world.
Religion, Culture, and Society in the Seventeenth Century
Religion and cultural life were central to the 17th-century experience, shaping identities and sparking new forms of expression. This collection features both scholarly and accessible books for readers interested in the intersection of faith, society, and daily life:
- Gospel Fear (Puritan Writings) offers insight into the religious mindset of the period and is an excellent choice for those exploring Puritanism and its influence on transatlantic culture.
- Secret Sexualities: A Sourcebook of 17th and 18th Century Writing uncovers hidden histories of gender and sexuality, broadening our understanding of Restoration literature and the complexities of early modern society.
For anyone researching seventeenth-century social history or the spiritual and cultural currents of the time, these sources offer rich, thought-provoking perspectives.
Colonial America and the Global 17th Century
The 17th century saw the rise of global trade, migration, and the founding of new societies. If you’re interested in the Atlantic world and colonial encounters, these books bring the period’s drama to life:
- The Island at the Center of the World tells the fascinating story of Dutch Manhattan and its pivotal role in shaping American history—an excellent pick for anyone researching early America or looking for the best books on 17th century Europe and its global impact.
- Of Plymouth Plantation is a foundational work for understanding the Pilgrim experience and the birth of colonial New England, ideal for those interested in primary sources and firsthand accounts.
- Mayflower 1620: A New Look at a Pilgrim Village presents a visually engaging and accessible introduction to colonial life, making it a great option for families or younger readers interested in the early modern period.
These selections help illuminate the global dimensions of the 17th century, from transatlantic migrations to the complex realities of colonial encounters.
Choosing the Right 17th Century Book for Your Interests
With so many avenues to explore, selecting the best 17th century history books can feel overwhelming. Consider your interests and reading goals:
- For comprehensive historical overviews: Europe in the Seventeenth Century (2nd Edition) and The English Civil War: A People's History are excellent starting points.
- To dive into science and ideas: Choose Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries of the 17th Century or The Philosophy of Spinoza.
- For social and cultural history: Secret Sexualities and Gospel Fear explore the era’s shifting cultural landscapes.
- For colonial and transatlantic stories: Both The Island at the Center of the World and Of Plymouth Plantation offer gripping narratives about the early Americas.
- For younger readers or visual learners: Mayflower 1620: A New Look at a Pilgrim Village is a perfect introduction to 17th-century daily life.
Why Buy Used 17th Century Books from ThriftBooks?
At ThriftBooks, you can easily buy used 17th century books and discover discount 17th century history books from leading scholars and storytellers. Shopping used means you save money while enjoying a wide selection of top-rated 17th century literature and rare finds. Whether you’re looking for an academic resource on early modern period studies, a gripping narrative of political intrigue, or a fresh perspective on Restoration literature, our collection makes it simple to find the right title for your shelf.
Start Your 17th Century Reading Journey
From vivid eyewitness accounts to in-depth explorations of philosophy, science, and society, our curated selection of the best 17th century books opens the door to a world of discovery. Browse, compare, and choose with confidence—each title offers a unique window into the people, events, and ideas that shaped a remarkable century. Begin your journey into the seventeenth century today and experience history in all its depth and diversity.
