Style is an expression of social change and thus a symbol of historical, social, cultural, artistic, and intellectual content. Franz Neckenig brings together history, society, culture, and art in a holistic method. How are works of art created? The author explains the influences under which artists work, the means of representation available to them, and the functions that artworks can have. He emphasizes that art always emerges within a specific social context and thus carries much of the historical circumstances within it. A concept of style that takes this fact into account and is not limited to an artistic repertoire of forms and themes promotes a comprehensive understanding of art. The author illustrates how this method can be concretely applied using selected examples from all genres and epochs—from medieval sacred architecture and manuscript illumination to works of the Italian Renaissance, Baroque, and Rococo, up to contemporary architecture and art. The book was developed through daily work with students and adults. It is aimed at both beginners in art history and interested laypeople, and due to its holistic approach, it can also be used for the study of history, culture, and social sciences.