Art and Beauty in the Middle Ages

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Umberto Eco; Translated by Hugh Bredin

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In this authoritative, lively book, the celebrated Italian novelist and philosopher Umberto Eco presents a learned summary of medieval aesthetic ideas. Juxtaposing theology and science, poetry and mysticism, Eco explores the relationship that existed between the aesthetic theories and the artistic experience and practice of medieval culture.

 “[A] delightful study. . . . [Eco’s] remarkably lucid and readable essay is full of contemporary relevance and informed by the energies of a man in love with his subject.” —Robert Taylor, Boston Globe

“The book lays out so many exciting ideas and interesting facts that readers will find it gripping.” —Washington Post Book World 

“A lively introduction to the subject.” —Michael Camille, The Burlington Magazine

“If you want to become acquainted with medieval aesthetics, you will not find a more scrupulously researched, better written (or better translated), intelligent and illuminating introduction than Eco’s short volume.” —D. C. Barrett, Art Monthly

Umberto Eco is the author of many books, including The Name of the Rose, Foucault’s Pendulum, Experiences in Translation, and The Island of the Day Before. 

"For as complex as this book is, it is written lucidly and engagingly and gets its points across in a concise and interesting manner."—Patricia L. Kleeberger, Art Documentation

"[A] delightful study. . . . His remarkably lucid and readable essay is full of contemporary relevance and informed by the energies of a man in love with his subject."—Robert Taylor, Boston Globe

"This study stands by itself as a monograph on the development of the aesthetic principles and problems that engaged the Schoolmen from the sixth through the 15th century. More than a history of theory, this essay is an absorbing synthesis of theology, science, poetry, and mysticism with artistic theory and practice—providing comprehensive insight into medieval culture."—Choice

"Some original insights into an era that was previously regarded by many as devoid of aesthetic ideals and criteria."—Kirkus Reviews

"Fresh and useful in this highly readable translation. . . . A brief but accurate introduction to a vast field."—Library Journal

"A model of what a historical survey should be."—Richard J. Morris, Los Angeles Times

"A welcome paperback edition of a translation first published in 1986 of the original Sviluppo dell'estetica medievale."—Manuscripta

"This survey of the aesthetics off medieval Latin civilization . . . reveals the insight and eloquence that would later gain him worldwide fame after the release of his novel, The Name of the Rose."—Alida Beccker, Philadelphia Inquirer

"An original and illuminating synthesis of disciplines usually treated separately."—Sunday Times

"Offer[s] as good a general introduction to medieval aesthetics and art theory as one is likely to find in English. . . . The book is filled . . . with quite wonderful material."—Russell Peck, The Baltimore Morning Sun

"The book lays out so many exciting ideas and interesting facts that readers will find it gripping."—Washington Post Book World

ISBN: 9780300093049
Publication Date: February 8, 2002
144 pages, 5 x 7.75