Distant Mirror

by Barbara Wertheim Tuchman

[scarr]

This book is fantastic in its depth. The author did not come to fuck around, she came to murder - with precision - the fond notion of knighthood, kings, princesses, castles and any kind feelings you may have reserved for “the Church” (lol if you have fond feelings please seek therapy I laugh because otherwise I’d cry).

When I began reading Dante’s Divine Comedy (not finished yet JEEZ), I realized how little I understood of 14th century western culture. For instance how the world of Dante reacted to his canticles - how his writings influenced culture. Anyway, I remembered to read this book. Which given the time we find ourselves in during a global pandemic .... this is triggering as fuck and also so goddamned well written. The parallels between then and now will ENRAGE you.

Anyway, the author’s writing is entertaining and everyone should read PARTS of this book. I get that 14th century plague and cultural commentary may not be for everyone, but if nothing else read the preface.