THE ITALIAN RENAISSANCE

The Italian Renaissance is a romantic and intrinsically interesting era. Professor Bartlett approaches the subject three ways: by geography (there are lectures on Florence and Milan), by leader (he focuses on monarchs and those who are elected), and by papacy. The multidimensional approach is effective. His presentation is articulate, but the length and relentless pace prevail to make the 45-minute lectures blend in the listener's mind. He repeats himself frequently, and it's unclear whether it's for emphasis or to fill time. Listeners will be better off reading the materials included in this package to familiarize themselves with this seminal period in Western culture. A.G.H. © AudioFile 2006, Portland, Maine [Published: FEB/ MAR 06]