Michelangelo: The Artist, the Man and his Times

If you want to find out about the life of Michelangelo, arguably the greatest of all Renaissance artists, then this biography by the American scholar, William Wallace, is an excellent starting point. He blends sources well and contrasts different accounts of specific incidents in Michelangelo's life to arrive at an informed interpretation. This acknowledgement of the myth of Michelangelo,largely the result of the artist's influence on his two contempory biographers, adds colour and entertainmnet to the story and ensures it will appeal to the general reader. The biography is well written, although my one gripe is the number of section headings which do create a slightly fragmented feel at times. That said, its an imensely enjoyable read.

This is one of the best Michelangelo biographies I've ever read because it is a perfect blend of research and interpretation. William E. Wallace is a gifted scholar whose profound understanding and original insight enable him to create a fresh image of Michelangelo as a human being and entrerpreneur.

Willliam Wallace is the recognized authority on Michelangelo. This brilliant biographies strength is that he describes the master as a pure human being and describes in great detail the masters anxieties and his doubts about himself He did this by using the letters Michelangelo received from friends and family and also monarchs and popes. The research he does meticulous and which only a person who is dedicated to his subject can and he avoids what Vasari and other biography's have done and not put Michelangelo on a pedestal and he does this by exposing Michelangelo's jealousies and insecurities when it comes to his rivalries with Bramante Leonardo and Raphael .. He goes from Michelangelo's childhood to his death at the superb age at that time of 89 years old and he describes the drive Michelangelo had not only to enhance his reputation but the future of his family. This one of the most enjoyable books I have read of renaissance art and it so much I enjoyed it such much I have read it twice if you are a fan or interested on life of this supreme artistic titan you should read this excellent book.

Not impressed. The book starts on page 31 and pages 1 - 30 only appear at about page 60. Not acceptable for a book of this price.