In this fascinating history of one of Europe’s most powerful dynasties, Strathern explores the eminent role that the ambitions and patronage of the Medici played in the Italian Renaissance and the cultural story of the entire continent.
A dazzling piece of Italian history of the infamous family that become one of the most powerful in Europe, weaving its history with Renaissance greats from Leonardo da Vinci to Galileo
Against the background of an age which saw the rebirth of ancient and classical learning, The Medici is a remarkably modern story of power, money and ambition. Strathern paints a vivid narrative of the dramatic rise and fall of the Medici family in Florence, as well as the Italian Renaissance which they did so much to sponsor and encourage.
Strathern also follows the lives of many of the great Renaissance artists with whom the Medici had dealings, including Leonardo, Michelangelo and Donatello; as well as scientists like Galileo and Pico della Mirandola; and the fortunes of those members of the Medici family who achieved success away from Florence, including the two Medici popes and Catherine de' Medicis, who became Queen of France and played a major role in that country through three turbulent reigns.
Publisher: Vintage Publishing
ISBN: 9780099522973
Number of pages: 448
Weight: 370 g
Dimensions: 197 x 129 x 28 mm
An excellent history...an entertaining, if ultimately dispiriting tale of the rise and fall of an ambitious banking family - Ian Thomson, Sunday Times
Strathern has done his research thoroughly, and tells a good story well - Sunday Telegraph
A great overview of one family's centuries-long role in changing the face of Europe - Irish Independent
Would you like to proceed to the App store to download the Waterstones App?
