BOOK BRIEF

The Agony and the Ecstasy

Irving Stone
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The Agony and the Ecstasy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

Book Brief

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Irving Stone

The Agony and the Ecstasy

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961
Book Details
Pages

776

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • Renaissance

Theme
Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Irving Stone's The Agony and the Ecstasy is a biographical novel that explores the life of artist Michelangelo Buonarroti, detailing his struggles, creative process, and achievements during the Renaissance. The narrative focuses on Michelangelo’s experiences as he works on significant art pieces and navigates relationships with various historical figures.

Reviews & Readership

4.3

93,220 ratings

76%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone is a detailed and evocative biographical novel that vividly immerses readers in Michelangelo's life. Praised for its historical accuracy and rich descriptions, it occasionally suffers from a slow narrative pace. Nevertheless, it remains a compelling portrayal of artistic passion and dedication.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Agony and the Ecstasy?

Readers who enjoy historical novels and biographical fiction will find The Agony and the Ecstasy by Irving Stone captivating. Fans of Ron Chernow's Alexander Hamilton or Robert Graves' I, Claudius will appreciate Stone’s detailed portrayal of Michelangelo's life, blending historical facts with compelling narrative.

4.3

93,220 ratings

76%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

8%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

776

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Italy • Renaissance

Theme
Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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