The Florentines
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The Florentines
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The Florentines
A sweeping 400-year history of the Florentines who gave birth to the Renaissance, by the author of The Medici and The Borgias.
Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! DescriptionPaul Strathern's sweeping 400-year history unveils the epochal changes in painting, sculpture, and architecture that defined the Renaissance. He eloquently describes how the Renaissance was a watershed moment when humanity's self-conception shifted, leading to the birth of various scientific disciplines in new and imaginative forms. This era, marked by unprecedented creativity and intellectual fervour, is brought to life through Strathern's engaging prose.
Strathern deftly argues that Florence's singular role during the Renaissance was as significant as central and northern Germany's role in the Reformation, Britain's centrality to the Industrial Revolution, and Silicon Valley's impact on the digital age. He presents Florence as not just a city, but the very epicentre of a cultural and intellectual explosion that altered the trajectory of Western history.
In The Florentines, readers will encounter a vivid gallery of historical figures whose contributions permanently changed Europe and the world. From the poetic genius of Dante and the masterful artistry of Botticelli to the political astuteness of Machiavelli, the visionary ingenuity of Leonardo da Vinci, the sculptural genius of Michelangelo, and the groundbreaking scientific discoveries of Galileo, Strathern provides an intimate look into the lives of these towering figures.
Through Strathern's masterful storytelling, Florence comes to life in all its splendour and complexity. He meticulously details the interplay of ambition, power, artistry, and innovation that made the city a beacon of the Renaissance. The narrative not only dives into the achievements of these great individuals but also examines how their collective efforts created a legacy that continues to reverberate through the annals of history.
The Florentines is a must-read for anyone interested in the Renaissance, offering a comprehensive yet accessible exploration of how Florence nurtured an environment ripe for revolutionary ideas. It's an enlightening journey into an era that forever changed the course of art, science, and philosophy, as well as an ode to a city that became a cornerstone of Western civilisation. Paul Strathern's skilful blend of historical insight and vivid description makes this book a riveting addition to the literature on the Renaissance.
Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?
The Florentines by Paul Strathern is praised for its engaging re-examination of Renaissance Florentine artists, scientists, and business leaders. The book is noted for its enjoyable prose filled with colourful anecdotes and vivid biographical sketches. Reviewers commend the detailed research and Strathern's ability to interconnect the city's social, political, and cultural spheres with art and finance. The work is recognised for offering a fresh perspective that brings the Renaissance period into sharper focus, making it highly recommended for readers interested in the era and Italian history.
Book Details
INFORMATION
ISBN: 9781786498748
Publisher: Atlantic Books
Format: Paperback / softback
Date Published: 07 April 2022
Country: United Kingdom
Imprint: Atlantic Books
Edition: Main
Illustration: 2x8pp colour plates
Audience: General / adult
DIMENSIONS
Spine width: 27.0mm
Width: 129.0mm
Height: 198.0mm
Weight: 373g
Pages: 384
About the Author
Paul Strathern studied philosophy at Trinity College, Dublin. He is a Somerset Maugham Award-winning novelist; author of two series of books - Philosophers in 90 Minutes and The Big Idea: Scientists who Changed the World - and several works of non-fiction, including The Medici, The Artist, the Philosopher and the Warrior, Spirit of Venice, Death in Florence and The Borgias.
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