David L.

Balanced and Academic View of Science and Religion

Reviewed: 09-20-22

What I really enjoyed about this lecture series is it really gets into some of the most important scientific debates in history but also provides greater background that there was not a religion versus science attitude throughout history. It also respects those with faith as well as challenges both sides to think more critically.

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Full History of Phillip I

Reviewed: 10-18-21

I would give this book between 4 and a 5 star and not because of its contents but mainly due to the order of which it is told. For those who have a better understanding of Phillips background I think the time line would not be as much of an issue. But for someone getting to know this era better, Post Charles V, I sometimes got confused on what date was related to what event because the author would go back-and-forth telling stories by theme versus chronological order. As there are a few extensive books on Philip II, would highly recommend it regardless of some ordering issues. It contains all the major battles facts and political situations both in Europe and in the Americas.

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A true picture of 15th century Spain

Reviewed: 08-27-20

Professor Ruiz, masterfully weaves political, cultural and sociological components of 1492 Spain and into the early 16th century. He addresses the obvious parts of history we know but also a few of the uncomfortable yet necessary contradictions in how the Spanish monarchy dealt with religion, regional challenges and the new world.

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2 people found this helpful

Art and Politics in Spain’s Golden Age

Reviewed: 08-23-20

What I appreciate in this book is it doesn’t only tackle the monarchy from Charles V (Charles I) to Charles Ii, but also dives into the most important painters, sculptors and writers of the age. I learned new names that don’t make it on traditional history books. Whether Pacheco or others, the level of detail may be too much for some, but in my eyes help elevate why these figures should be better known.

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Entertaining, Informative, Relevant

Reviewed: 04-11-20

Professor Daileader’s lectures on the High Middle Ages were an excellent primer to learn about 900-1300 Europe. I appreciate that he didn’t just do a chronological review of relevant events but did a few deep dives in key figures, movements and also different historians and how they approach this time. 5 stars.

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Foundational lecture series of late antiquity and the early middle ages

Reviewed: 08-22-19

Professor Daileader really brings to life the key events and moments of Europe during the early middle ages and also helps think through the reasons behind the decline of Rome. Having needed a foundational understanding of key events, moments and cultural movements in Spain, France, England, Germany, and the Viking era this provides me a better grasp as I look into the middle and high Middle Ages. The professor is also witty and throws an occasional fun joke and is intellectual curious that is pleasing.

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Fantastic Part of History I didn't know much about

Reviewed: 06-09-16

What made the experience of listening to Over the Edge of the World the most enjoyable?

I found the book addicting in that it told enough history to give you context, but didn't dwell on it. Fascinating how the beliefs at the time (of the ocean boiling and full of demons) met with true human issues (hunger, power, deception). The best part of the book was the climax of their interaction with island people.

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