First introduced by Arabs to newly gained territories in the Mediterranean during the 8th and 9th centuries, the game of chess soon spread throughout Europe, slowly evolving from the less dynamic Shatranj verion into modern chess. This study examines the classical era of modern chess from the late 15th century into the 1640s, paying special attention to key developments in the medieval period and later. After tracing the birth of modern chess in Europe, it offers critical appreciation of relevant chess literature--including works by von der Lasa, van der Linde, Leon, Murray, Chicco, Eales, Petzold, Sanvito, and Garzon--and chronicles all opening and game moves of the era and the development of laws and rules like ""en passant"" taking, King's leaps, and castlings. With a glossary and over 100 illustrations, this is the definitive overview of a transformative era in the history of chess.