Posted by Pfinstegg on August 27, 2005, at 13:44:12
"Montaillou". based on transcripts made by the Catholic Church in the process of trying to quell a heretic uprising in Spain in the 13th Century. People in that tiny mountain town were interviewed (inquisitioned) about every aspect of their lives, so you learn how they lived, who they fell in love with- all in their actual words. It's so fascinating (to me) that I've read it three times. They were part of the Cathar Heresy- and you learn at the end that many of them were put to death for that. The contrast between their fates and the intensity with which they lived their lives is so powerful. I don't know of another book where you can read real-life conversations from 700 years ago.
"Poets in a Landscape", by Gilbert Highet. A wonderful look at where Vergil, Horace, Ovid, etc. actually lived, with good photos and excerpts from the best of their poetry. You feel you are there, as it actually was 2000 years ago.
Almost anything by Rainer Maria Rilke. I am just discovering him, and think he must be one of the best few poets of all time. Older translations from the German are sort of heavy, but the newer ones are supple and beautiful.
poster:Pfinstegg
thread:547257
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/books/20050728/msgs/547257.html