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48 pages 1 hour read

Stephen Greenblatt

The Swerve: How the World Became Modern

Stephen GreenblattNonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2011

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Book Brief

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Stephen Greenblatt

The Swerve

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2011
Book Details
Pages

356

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 15th century

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Swerve by Stephen Greenblatt chronicles how Poggio Bracciolini rediscovers Lucretius' epic poem On the Nature of Things in 1417, which revives Epicurean philosophy, challenging medieval church doctrine and catalyzing the Renaissance. Topics of religious persecution and violence are discussed.

Informative

Contemplative

Inspirational

Adventurous

Reviews & Readership

4.2

36,668 ratings

70%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Stephen Greenblatt's The Swerve is praised for its engaging narrative and thorough research, bringing to life the rediscovery of Lucretius's poem and its impact on the Renaissance. Critics commend its readability for both scholars and general readers. However, some argue it occasionally oversimplifies complex historical connections. Overall, it offers an insightful and accessible blend of history and literature.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Swerve?

A reader who enjoys The Swerve by Stephen Greenblatt is likely fascinated by history, literature, and the Renaissance. They may also appreciate books like The Name of the Rose by Umberto Eco and The Discoverers by Daniel J. Boorstin, drawn to narratives that explore intellectual history and transformative cultural shifts.

4.2

36,668 ratings

70%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

10%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

356

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Europe • 15th century

Publication Year

2011

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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