Ravenna, a Study By: Edward Hutton (1875-1969)
In "Ravenna, a Study" by Edward Hutton, readers are transported to the beautiful and historically rich city of Ravenna, Italy. Hutton's in-depth exploration of this lesser-known gem offers a fascinating journey through time and space. From the very beginning, Hutton's love for Ravenna shines through his lyrical and descriptive prose. His vivid imagery effortlessly brings to life the city's monuments, mosaics, and hidden corners. The author's deep knowledge of art, history, and architecture is evident in every paragraph, as he expertly guides readers through the city's labyrinthine streets, unraveling its complex past. One of the standout features of this book is Hutton's dedication to delving into the intricate details of Ravenna's architectural wonders. His comprehensive analysis of the city's iconic basilicas, particularly the Basilica di San Vitale, showcases his ability to make complex subjects accessible to all readers. Through his words, the beauty and significance of Ravenna's mosaics are brilliantly illuminated, featuring captivating anecdotes and historical insights that truly elevate the reading experience. In addition to showcasing Ravenna's physical beauty, Hutton also delves into the city's rich tapestry of cultural and political history. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire to Ravenna's transformation into a thriving center of Byzantine art and power, the author seamlessly weaves together a captivating narrative that spans centuries. This historical background serves as a backdrop to the marvels of architecture and art that Hutton expertly unravels, adding an extra layer of depth to the reader's understanding and appreciation of the city. The author's deep passion for Ravenna's past is contagious. His enthusiasm spills from the pages, drawing readers into the depths of his exploration and making them want to immediately book a flight to this enchanting Italian city. The book's well-researched content is complemented by a collection of stunning black-and-white photographs, which only further enhance the reader's visual experience. While "Ravenna, a Study" is undoubtedly a remarkable ode to this remarkable city, some readers may find the author's detailed descriptions overwhelming at times. Those unacquainted with the subject matter might struggle to keep up with the wide array of historical figures and events mentioned throughout the book. However, Hutton's engaging storytelling and infectious enthusiasm help compensate for occasional moments of complexity, allowing readers to easily become immersed in his narrative. Overall, "Ravenna, a Study" is an enlightening and captivating exploration of one of Italy's hidden treasures. Edward Hutton's unwavering passion for this city shines through in every chapter, making it a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, or simply seeking an escape to a place steeped in beauty and culture. First Page: RAVENNA A STUDY BY EDWARD HUTTON ILLUSTRATED IN COLOUR AND LINE BY HARALD SUND 1913 TO MY FRIEND ARTHUR SYMONS IN AFFECTIONATE HOMAGE PREFACE My intention in writing this book has been to demonstrate the unique importance of Ravenna in the history of Italy and of Europe, especially during the Dark Age from the time of Alaric's first descent into the Cisalpine plain to the coming of Charlemagne. That importance, as it seems to me, has been wholly or almost wholly misunderstood, and certainly, as I understand it, has never been explained. In this book, which is offered to the public not without a keen sense of its inadequacy, I have tried to show in as clear a manner as was at my command, what Ravenna really was in the political geography of the empire, and to explain the part that position allowed her to play in the great tragedy of the decline and fall of the Roman administration. If I have succeeded in this I am amply repaid for all the labour the book has cost me. The principal sources, both ancient and modern, which I have consulted in the preparation of this volume have been cited, but I must here acknowledge the special debt I owe to the late Dr. Hodgkin, to Professor Diehl, to Dr. Corrado Ricci, and to the many contributors to the various Italian Bollettini which I have ransacked... Continue reading book >>

Ravenna, a Study By: Edward Hutton (1875-1969)

In "Ravenna, a Study" by Edward Hutton, readers are transported to the beautiful and historically rich city of Ravenna, Italy. Hutton's in-depth exploration of this lesser-known gem offers a fascinating journey through time and space.

From the very beginning, Hutton's love for Ravenna shines through his lyrical and descriptive prose. His vivid imagery effortlessly brings to life the city's monuments, mosaics, and hidden corners. The author's deep knowledge of art, history, and architecture is evident in every paragraph, as he expertly guides readers through the city's labyrinthine streets, unraveling its complex past.

One of the standout features of this book is Hutton's dedication to delving into the intricate details of Ravenna's architectural wonders. His comprehensive analysis of the city's iconic basilicas, particularly the Basilica di San Vitale, showcases his ability to make complex subjects accessible to all readers. Through his words, the beauty and significance of Ravenna's mosaics are brilliantly illuminated, featuring captivating anecdotes and historical insights that truly elevate the reading experience.

In addition to showcasing Ravenna's physical beauty, Hutton also delves into the city's rich tapestry of cultural and political history. From the rise and fall of the Roman Empire to Ravenna's transformation into a thriving center of Byzantine art and power, the author seamlessly weaves together a captivating narrative that spans centuries. This historical background serves as a backdrop to the marvels of architecture and art that Hutton expertly unravels, adding an extra layer of depth to the reader's understanding and appreciation of the city.

The author's deep passion for Ravenna's past is contagious. His enthusiasm spills from the pages, drawing readers into the depths of his exploration and making them want to immediately book a flight to this enchanting Italian city. The book's well-researched content is complemented by a collection of stunning black-and-white photographs, which only further enhance the reader's visual experience.

While "Ravenna, a Study" is undoubtedly a remarkable ode to this remarkable city, some readers may find the author's detailed descriptions overwhelming at times. Those unacquainted with the subject matter might struggle to keep up with the wide array of historical figures and events mentioned throughout the book. However, Hutton's engaging storytelling and infectious enthusiasm help compensate for occasional moments of complexity, allowing readers to easily become immersed in his narrative.

Overall, "Ravenna, a Study" is an enlightening and captivating exploration of one of Italy's hidden treasures. Edward Hutton's unwavering passion for this city shines through in every chapter, making it a must-read for anyone interested in art, history, or simply seeking an escape to a place steeped in beauty and culture.

First Page:

RAVENNA A STUDY

BY EDWARD HUTTON

ILLUSTRATED IN COLOUR AND LINE BY HARALD SUND

1913

TO MY FRIEND ARTHUR SYMONS IN AFFECTIONATE HOMAGE

PREFACE

My intention in writing this book has been to demonstrate the unique importance of Ravenna in the history of Italy and of Europe, especially during the Dark Age from the time of Alaric's first descent into the Cisalpine plain to the coming of Charlemagne. That importance, as it seems to me, has been wholly or almost wholly misunderstood, and certainly, as I understand it, has never been explained. In this book, which is offered to the public not without a keen sense of its inadequacy, I have tried to show in as clear a manner as was at my command, what Ravenna really was in the political geography of the empire, and to explain the part that position allowed her to play in the great tragedy of the decline and fall of the Roman administration. If I have succeeded in this I am amply repaid for all the labour the book has cost me.

The principal sources, both ancient and modern, which I have consulted in the preparation of this volume have been cited, but I must here acknowledge the special debt I owe to the late Dr. Hodgkin, to Professor Diehl, to Dr. Corrado Ricci, and to the many contributors to the various Italian Bollettini which I have ransacked... Continue reading book >>

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