Let the Good Times Roll! A Brief History of Venetian Carnival

A brief history of Carnival in Venice, almost 1000 years old.

Black History: Renaissance Gondoliers of African Descent

How were black servants and slaves treated in Renaissance Venice?

How Trump is like a 14th-Century Venetian Doge

Trump and his attempted coup have much in common with the 14th-century Venetian doge, Marino Faliero. If we do not learn from history, we are condemned to repeat it.

A Covid Christmas: Holiday Gift Ideas

Gift suggestions for a Covid holiday season. Merry Christmas, Happy Channukah, and stay safe!

Happy Halloween from the Plague Doctor

So I decided to be a plague doctor for Halloween this year. What or who exactly was a plague doctor?

My Non-Fiction Recommendations – Fall 2020

Last month I gave you my top historical fiction recommendations of 2020; this month I'll focus on some of the non-fiction I've been reading. Many of them of course have an historical element to them. Many of them blew my mind. Suffice it to say, it's been a mind-blowing year. Now that the weather has … Continue reading My Non-Fiction Recommendations – Fall 2020 →

My Historical Fiction Recommendations – Fall 2020

My topic historical fiction recommendations.

Raphael: Painter in Rome – Novel review and Q&A with author

Read a review of the new novel Raphael: Painter in Rome and an interview with the author, Stephanie Storey

Raphael Roundup: Books and Films

A roundup of nonfiction, fiction, and films featuring the artist Raphael.

Raphael: A Visual Salve for Stressful Days

Musings on Raphael 500 years after his death. Looking at his art can be the healing salve we all need right now.