Baudolino
Baudolino
Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2000
Book Brief
528
Novel • Fiction
Medieval Europe • 12th Century
2000
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Baudolino by Umberto Eco follows the adventurous life of Baudolino, an Italian peasant turned adopted son of Emperor Frederick I, as he travels through a fantastical twelfth-century Europe, encountering mythological creatures and historical figures while seeking the mythic Kingdom of Prester John. Topics discussed include violence, enslavement, and the brutality of the Crusades.
Mysterious
Fantastical
Adventurous
Playful
Informative
Reviews & Readership
24,619 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Umberto Eco's Baudolino is a rich tapestry of historical fantasy that mixes wit and scholarship. Readers praise its imaginative storytelling and complex narrative, but some find the plot convoluted and the historical references overwhelming. It engages those who enjoy intricate details, though it may challenge others with its density.
Who Should Read Baudolino?
A reader who delights in historical fiction interwoven with mystery and philosophical depth, similar to The Name of the Rose or The Historian, will find Baudolino by Umberto Eco captivating. The book's blend of medieval history, scholarship, and myth appeals to those who appreciate erudite narratives and intricate plots.
24,619 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
528
Novel • Fiction
Medieval Europe • 12th Century
2000
Adult
18+ years
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