Maniates maintains that Mannerism was not just a transitional phase between the Renaissance and Baroque eras but a distinct cultural period in which music as well as other arts participated. In a detailed analysis of the music, the author traces mannerist elements in theory, composition, and performance. She focuses on the polyphonic madrigal as the medium through which the major style changes were effected and traces the development of secular music from its most subtle to its most blatant manneristic forms. Originally published in 1979. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.