Synopses & Reviews
A major bestseller in Italy, Paul Ginsborg's account of this most recent and dynamic period in Italy's history is essential reading for anyone wishing to understand contemoprary Italy. Ginsborg chronicles a period that witnessed a radical transformation in the country's social, economic and political landscape, creating a fascinating and definitve account of how Italy has coped or failed to cope as it moves from one century to the next. With particular emphasis on its role in italian life, work and culture Ginsborg shows how smaller families, longer lives and greater generation crossover have had significant effects on Italian society. Ginsborg looks at the 2000 elections, the influence of the Mafia, the decline of both Communism and Catholicism, and the change in national identity. This is modern history at its best.
Review
"[A] rich, dense portrait....Despite Ginsborg's generally optimistic portrayal, this book is far too complex to offer a Pollyannaish portrayal of Italy....Ginsborg has not written an easy book, but it offers a complete portrayal of the textures of Italian society." Publishers Weekly
Review
"Italy and its Discontents is a tour-de-force. Anyone concerned about the condition of the country will find it packed with material to think about and argue over." The Economist (London)
Review
"Complex and fertile with 'thick description,' Italy and Its Discontents radiates the paradoxes and ironies that abound in a troubled country." Stanislao G. Pugliese, The New York Times Book Review
Synopsis
Includes bibliographical references (p. 455-500) and index.
Synopsis
Finally in paperback, Paul Ginsborg's masterful portrait of modern Italy, with a new preface
About the Author
Paul Ginsborg is Professor of Contemporary European History in the Faculty of Letters and Philosophy, University of Florence. His previous publications include Daniele Manin and the Venetian Revolution of 1848-1849.