Illuminating and informative introduction to Romania
|
This is a very good introduction to all things Romanian. Romania's two most famous sons may be Dracula (Vlad Tepes) and Ceausescu and readers after information on these two won't be disappointed. The real strength of the book is to provide the cultural and historical contexts behind the legends. Vlad the Impaler may be known as the caped befanged fiend of western cinema but this particular Wallachian Prince is also one of the folk heroes of Romania, one whom Ceausescu also greatly admired. It is perhaps not so odd that one with such a fiercesome reputation could become a source of pride, particularily when one considers the deeds of Richard the Lionheart, King Arthur and so on whose names reverberates with bloodshed.
Lucian Boia writes in a compelling manner about Budapest, about systematization, about tower blocks and the days when Bucharest was known as little Paris. The book has a wonderful warm tone constantly expressing his affection for his country, even when discussing darker episodes in Romania's past and uncertainty to come. This is a marvellous book and a great introduction for anyone wishing to learn about a much overlooked country.
|
|
|
United States | 
United Kingdom | 
Canada