Customer Reviews

The romance of Leonardo da Vinci (His Christ and Anti-Christ ; v. 2)

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This book is mostly unknown, although it is, in my opinion, one of the greatest novels ever written. The accuracy and depth of the historical reconstruction give a keen insight into the times of italian Renaissance, providing an extraordinary and original portrait of the great genius and his lonely wanderings through late 15th century Italy. The insight the author manages to give on the artistic and scientific thought of Leonardo are unique, and rival any scientific text. The sublime reading pleasure is hence greatened by the wealth of knowledge which can be extracted from this wonderful book. A pity the author is greatly unknown, not only in this but also in all his other works.

I first found this book in a college library over 16 years ago. I've since seen only 3 other copies of it. This is a great pity, as it is surely one of the best written novels any where in the world. Dmitry Merezhkovsky has recreated the conflicted life of Leonardo: genius on one side counter balanced by the pagan world in conflict with the fanatical religous climate in which he lived. If you want to submerge yourself in Leonardo's world, I highly recommend this book for doing so.

I have never picked up a book and been touched as I have been with this one. The other reviews are accurate, this book is one of the the greatest novels I have ever read. The insight into the mind of Leanardo is amazing. I will cherish this book forever.

Images from this book which I read 30 years ago are still strong and are touchstones, especially about the compatibility and connectedness of art and science. The goodies mentioned in the other reviews are all there as well. Renaissance Italy brought to life with realistic objective style depictions of historical characters and places without letting our modern concept of the Renaissance get in the way. The how and why of Savonorola is fascinating. Leonardo is given as an example of self-containment in a world of contradictions and abasements. A great book with magic in it that deserves to be read slowly.
It is indeed a shame that this book is not better known and celebrated. Since I came upon the book by random selection (not by reputation), it makes me wonder how many other neglected masterpieces there are.

Many years ago I was required to read "The Romance" while a young man at the University (US Naval Academy). I am now a senior citizen, and having read the book three times, I consider it to be the greatest book I have ever read. It affected me enormously many years ago and still does today. More then any other book, it has affected my philosophy of life. Every time I read it I learn something new and am awed by its elegance. I am surprised it hasn't made a profound impact on more people. Beautifully written, it is a treasure trove of Western Renaissance information.