BOOK BRIEF

The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty

Alexander Lee
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The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014

Book Brief

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Alexander Lee

The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2014
Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Italian Literature
Period
Medieval
Setting

Italy • 15th Century

Topic
Arts & Culture

Politics & Government

World History
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

In The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty, Alexander Lee explores the darker aspects of Renaissance society. The work highlights contradictions beneath this era's celebrated art and culture, uncovering how individuals navigated issues of power, corruption, and morality, revealing the multifaceted nature of the period's people and their world.

Informative

Dark

Mysterious

Unnerving

Gritty

Reviews & Readership

3.8

988 ratings

51%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

The Ugly Renaissance by Alexander Lee presents an unvarnished view of the period, focusing on its darker aspects. Critics appreciate its rigorous research and engaging narrative but note it sometimes prioritizes sensationalism over depth. The book’s vivid depiction of historical figures is praised, though some readers find its tone occasionally overwhelming.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Ugly Renaissance: Sex, Greed, Violence and Depravity in an Age of Beauty?

Readers who enjoy The Ugly Renaissance by Alexander Lee likely have an interest in exploring the darker, complex aspects of history. Fans of The Better Angels of Our Nature by Steven Pinker or The Swerve by Stephen Greenblatt may appreciate its gritty, nuanced view of the Renaissance beyond its celebrated artistry and culture.

3.8

988 ratings

51%

Loved it

33%

Mixed feelings

16%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

448

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Genre
Italian Literature
Period
Medieval
Setting

Italy • 15th Century

Topic
Arts & Culture

Politics & Government

World History
Publication Year

2014

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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