The Popes

A History

By: John Julius Norwich

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Paperback | 1 June 2012 | Edition Number 1

At a Glance

Paperback
528 Pages

Dimensions(cm)
3.3 x 12.9 x 19.8

Paperback

RRP $22.99

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An irresistible account of some of history’s most illustrious – and iniquitous – figures, from one of our best-loved historians.

Well known for his histories of Norman Sicily, Venice, the Byzantine Empire and the Mediterranean, John Julius Norwich has now turned his attention to the oldest continuing institution in the world, tracing the papal line down the centuries from St Peter himself – traditionally (though by no means historically) the first pope – to the present Benedict XVI.Of the 280-odd holders of the supreme office, some have unquestionably been saints; others have wallowed in unspeakable iniquity.From the legend of Pope Joan to the majestic pontiffs of the Renaissance, the Borgias and Medicis; from Reformation to Counter-Reformation; from Pius XII and the Holocaust to today’s Benedict XVI, struggling to deal with appalling revelations of sexual misbehaviour within the Church – the pace never slackens.John Julius Norwich, an agnostic with no religious axe to grind, has a thrilling and important tale to tell – and in this rich, authoritative book he does it full justice.

About the Author

John Julius Norwich is the author of histories of Norman Sicily, the Republic of Venice, the Byzantine Empire and, most recently, The Middle Sea: A History of the Mediterranean. He has also written on architecture, music and the history plays of Shakespeare, and has presented some thirty historical documentaries on BBC Television.

Industry Reviews

"The stories are glorious...stuffed with monsters, absurdities, wonders and politics... the parade is endlessly interesting" Scotsman "Norwich certainly has an eye for the tiny detail that illuminates a whole character" Mail on Sunday "A highly readable book" Sunday Times "One of the most bizarre and enjoyable history books I've ever read" Daily Express "[John Julius Norwich] approaches his vast canvas with broad brush strokes, dashing off profile after profile with aplomb, flashes of wit and a formidable accumulation of detail" Financial Times

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