Synopses & Reviews
Synopsis
The world's finest maps explored and explained.
From Ptolemy's world map to the Hereford's Mappa Mundi, through Mercator's map of the world to the latest maps of the Moon and Google Earth, Great Maps provides a fascinating overview of cartography through the ages.
Revealing the stories behind 55 historical maps by analyzing graphic close-ups, Great Maps also profiles key cartographers and explorers to look why each map was commissioned, who it was for and how they influenced navigation, propaganda, power, art, and politics.
Synopsis
The whole world is mapped out for your viewing pleasure in this captivating compendium, ranging from past to present through diverse themes of transport and technology to discoveries and development. Covering the classical maps of the ancient world and traveling through time to reach Google Earth in the 21st century, this unprecedented history of more than 60 maps opens up our planet as never before. Great Maps showcases early Medieval maps like including mappae mundi; iconic transport maps such as the London Underground; important travel maps including Dr. Livingstone's version of Africa; maps of natural wonders such as the ocean floor; and momentous moments including the marks on the Moon left by the lunar landings.
There are maps that show the way to heaven, depict lands with no sunshine, and the mysterious home of "the people with no bowels" on this mind-blowing journey.
Much more than just geographical data, maps are an accurate reflection of the culture and context of different time frames in history. British historian Jerry Brotton tells the amazing secret stories behind many of the most significant maps ever unearthed, revealing key features and innovative techniques in incredible detail.
The unique insight into how mapmakers have expressed their world views results in this treasured book that makes a welcome addition to any bookshelf or home library.
Synopsis
A superbly illustrated guide to 64 maps from all around the world
From examples of medieval Mappa Mundi and the first atlas to Google Earth and maps of the moon, this captivating maps book is a must-have for all history and geography enthusiasts and explorers
Embark on a visual tour of the world's finest maps This fascinating world atlas book:
- Analyses each map visually, with the help of pull-outs and graphic close-up details
- Traces the history of maps chronologically, providing a fascinating overview of cartography through the ages
- Tells the story behind each map -- why it was created, who it was for, and how it was achieved
- Profiles key cartographers, explorers and artists
- Draws together navigation, propaganda, power, art and politics through the world's greatest maps
Maps are much more than just geographical data. They are an accurate reflection of the culture and context of different time frames in history. This remarkable geography book puts cartography on the map It tells the stories behind great maps through stunning pull-out details and reveals how they have helped people make sense of the world.
Embark on a global adventure of a lifetime with this world map book and see our planet like never before On this mind-blowing journey, you'll encounter maps that show the way to heaven, depict lands with no sunshine, and even the world ocean floor.
With incredible secret stories from British historian Jerry Brotton and insight into how mapmakers have expressed their world views, Great Maps is a welcome addition to any armchair cartographer's bookshelf.