The Courtier: Il Cortegiano Audiobook (Unabridged)

" "Do you not see that what you are calling nonchalance in messer Roberto is really affection, because we clearly see him making every effort to show that he takes no thought of what he is about, which means taking too much thought; and because it exceeds certain limits of moderation, such nonchalance is affected, is unbecoming, and results in the opposite of the desired effect, which is to conceal the art." p33 "

" Written in the 15th century, this is a must-read for anyone who's interested in the Italian Renaissance. Castiglione instructs his readers in that which a courtier should be educated, in court life, politics, and romance. I love this book. "

" I read an abridged version of this felt to me like a medieval Coltrane, in that what began as a humorous and popular booklet took flight in the theological realm. "

" It's THE BOOK OF THE COURTIER . . . . There isn't much to say beyond that. Probably a vital book to know if you seriously study the Renaissance, but unless there is some punishment awaiting you if you don't read it, I wouldn't bother. "

" had its moments, but they were few and far between. for the most part, pretty boring. "

" Surprisingly readable considering it was written in 15th century Italy. Good Translator, I suppose. This book is an interesting conversation by a group of nobles as to what qualities they value. Proves that human nature doesn't change very much. "

" I had to read this for a graduate class. Some of it was interesting, but the Renaissance style of rhetoric is just so drawn out. It gets old fast. It's a great resource for teaching students about the values of the court system, though. "

" This books shows how someone of low class can become a nobleman a man of the court hence forth the title Courtier. "

" i understand the historical importance, but DEFINITELY not my style of book. SO laborious "

" The demands of the ideal man were to much for me. "

" Read for a class. Interesting in some of the information but it was hard to get my attention though out most of the book. "

" I am not a fan of Renaissance literature or the opinion of the women. Did not enjoy it. "

" Probably historically worthwhile, but very boring and difficult to get through. "

" An interesting vision of the structures of the good life, if one can look past the lackadaisical structure. "

" Really interesting, because it shows the life in a Renaissance court, the way of thinking, the customs etc "

" Sprezzatura all up in here, hilariously and timelessly observant. "

" Somewhat tedious but I enjoyed it. "