Reviews

Illuminating Women in the Medieval World by Christine Sciacca

lauraajohnsonrn's review against another edition

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2.0

Short, quick read but poorly organized. The author does not stay on the topic she gave each section and her analysis of the images was repetitive.

anneliesb's review against another edition

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I received a copy from NetGalley

This book will be a companion to the upcoming exhibition in the J. Paul Getty Museum.

It is a lovely picture book, especially for those of us who will not have the opportunity to visit the actual exhibition. The text will give you an elementary context for the illuminations, but does not provide in-depth scholarly insights.


camillalice's review against another edition

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5.0

Thanks to NetGalley and Getty Publications for the free ebook.

Very interesting, short and accessible. The illustrations are gorgeous. I especially liked seeing a few pictures from Jewish and Muslim texts as well as a picture from a Christian book outwith Europe.

saralouisemarsbar's review against another edition

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2.0

Not really what I was expecting. Would read better in physical format.
Also it was all over the place in terms of structure.

dkevanstoronto's review against another edition

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4.0

This book is very comprehensive in looking at graphic depictions of women in medieval society. Using pictures from the Getty collection one gets a sense of the breadth of the life of Women in European society both east and west as well as in Ethiopia.

Its a very happy experience to see a greater range of depiction than one would have seen before in previous books on this subject. I would highly recommend the sumptuous volume of pictures to anyone interested in medieval life, the history of women or the development of art.

chloesbook's review against another edition

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4.0

Beautiful book! Great glimpse into the life of medieval women, including female saints. It was written in an accessible, easy style.

deearr's review

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5.0

Most people have a limited knowledge of women in the Middle Ages. This book by Christine Sciacca will open up many eyes. The publication is timed to coincide with the 2017 exhibition at the J. Paul Getty Museum in Los Angeles.

An illuminated manuscript is defined as a manuscript in which the text is supplemented with decorations. These could include initials, borders, and illustrations. Ms. Sciacca has divided her book into four sections, Medieval Ideals of Womanhood, Warnings to Medieval Women, Medieval Women in Daily Life, and Medieval Women in the Arts. The layout is wonderful, and almost turns the pages for readers. The balance between text and illuminations changes constantly, never allowing the eyes to tire.

The Middle Ages was a time when males dominated the church and state, and controlled much of what happened. However, there were women who thought differently, who were opposed to the “normal” order of things and had the courage to speak their minds. Many of the illuminated manuscripts present these women through the images and accompanying text. Not only are women featured, but many of the manuscripts were commissioned by female patrons as well as illuminated by women.

The script is informative, enlightening readers not only about each illumination but also offering a back history of some of the essential characters featured in the art. For anyone interested in the medieval life and the attitudes of those living during that time, this is an excellent book. Five stars.

My thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book.

annyway47's review

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4.0

Illuminating Women in the Medieval World by Christine Sciacca

Illuminating Women in the Medieval World is a pretty short book. It's divided into four parts:

- Medieval Ideals of Womanhood
- Warnings to Medieval Women
- Medieval Women in Daily Life
- Medieval Women in the Arts

The author doesn't claim to go into any great depths in this work. It's not a history book with lots of details, analysis, or in-depth research into the topic. The themes outlined in the chapter titles are touched upon rather quickly and superficially. The authors don't presume any prior knowledge in their readers.



I have a hardcover copy, which is well made: the quality of print, color, paper are excellent. All illustrations are full color.

The book is heavily illustrated. Each page has at least one or a couple of pictures of medieval artwork or manuscripts. Example:



I was especially interested in the manuscripts since I'm into medieval calligraphy. The illustrations are selected beautifully.

I'm giving this 4 stars because I didn't find out any new info. However, the book accomplished what I came for - showcased medieval art and manuscripts, so I'm satisfied.

I wouldn't recommend this to people who are knowledgeable or are looking for an in-depth study - you'll likely be disappointed.
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