Christian—Book Summaries
France
Holy Roman Empire
Vikings/Normans
Catholic Church
Reformation
Europe
Legends
France
Stories from French History by Lena Dalkeith
This beautifully illustrated book tells seven of the most picturesque stories from the history of France. They include the story of Clovis and his Queen Clotilda, Charlemagne, Saint Louis the Crusader, Joan of Arc, the Huguenots and the St. Bartholomew's Day massacre, the French Revolution and Marie Antoinette, and Napoleon Bonaparte.37 credits
Story of Joan of Arc by Andrew Lang
Joan of Arc was a peasant girl with no political connections, and no knowledge of military affairs when she led the armies of France against the English at Orleans, and turned the tide of the 100 years war. The strange story of her rise from obscurity and eventual martyrdom would scarcely be believable if it had not been investigated and recorded in detail while she was still alive, by her mortal enemies, and others who hoped to discredit her. This book tells her story at just the right level of detail for older grammar and middle school students. 36 credits
Gabriel and the Hour Book by Evaleen Stein
The events of this book take place in a monastery during the middle ages. It recounts the story of the making of an hour book, as a wedding gift from King Louis of France to Lady Anne of Brittany. It is told from the point of view of Gabriel, a color grinder for Brother Stephen, and the good fortune that comes to him by way of the beautiful book of devotions and prayers.34 credits
France: Peeps at History by John Finnemore
This book provides a succinct but thorough history of France, beginning with the Gauls under Roman rule and extending to the aftermath of the Napoleonic Wars. All of the major characters and events in French history are briefly treated and the book is beautifully illustrated with important French characters and events. 37 credits
Story of Old France by Helene Guerber
This book, along with its companion volume, The Story of New France provides a comprehensive overview of French history from Roman Gaul to the First World War. This first volume begins with stories of the Gauls prior to the Roman Conquest, and ends with the death of Louis XVI. The Merovingian, Carolingian, Capet, and Valois dynasties are covered, as well as the early Bourbon monarchs.165 credits
Story of France by Mary Macgregor
This comprehensive history of France covers Gaul from the Roman conquest to the Franco-Prussian War in the late 19th century. The stories of French heroes such as Vercingetorix, Clovis, Roland, Charlemagne, Rollo the Viking, St. Louis, Bertrand du Guesclin, Joan of Arc, Charles the Bold, Bayard, Henry Navarre, Louis XIV, and Napoleon Bonaparte are told with great interest.226 credits
Life of St. Vincent de Paul by F. A. Forbes
This book tells the story of Vincent de Paul, one of the great saints of the French counter-reformation. He was born of a peasant family, and was ordained as a young man. One of his first assignments was as a chaplain to galley slaves, and this inspired him to dedicate the rest of his life to missionary work. He founded the order of the Lazarist missionary priests and with a nun friend assisted in the formation of the sisters of Charity. 36 credits
Historical Tales: 6— French by Charles Morris
Some of the most romantic stories of France, beginning with the Visigoth repulsion of the Huns at Chalons, and ending with the Franco Prussian War are recounted by an outstanding storyteller. This collection of entertaining stories was written especially to appeal to young adults. Familiar characters such as Charlemagne and Joan of Arc are introduced, but so are lesser known characters such as Bayard, Charles the Bold, and the Duke of Bourbon.136 credits
Louis XIV by John S. C. Abbott
Louis the XIV ruled France for over seventy years, during which time both the power of France and the corruption of the aristocracy increased greatly. This biography provides an overview of the wars and political events of his reign as well as insight into the palace politics and personalities during this critical period in French history. 114 credits
Henry IV by John S. C. Abbott
Henry IV came to the throne of France during a period of terrible religious and political strife. The kingdom was in the throes of civil war between Huguenots and Catholics, but the religious aspects of the conflict masked even greater political divisions. Henry IV fought on the Protestant side, but reconverted to Catholicism when he became king and spent much of his reign helping to heal old wounds and mend relations. Through the life of Henry IV, the story of the Protestant Reformation in France is told with great insight.97 credits
Holy Roman Empire (Germany, Austria, Italy)
Stories of William Tell Told to the Children by H. E. Marshall
This children's biography of William Tell treats the historical as well as the legendary aspects of the Great Swiss hero. It describes the oppressions of the forest Cantons at the hands of their imperial overlords and how the Swiss fought to gain their independence. The Story of William Tell is told in the context of the great patriot's heroic resistance to Gessler, the brutal governor of Albrecht, Duke of Austria. 33 credits
Otto of the Silver Hand by Howard Pyle
This story is set in the middle ages. The principle character is a boy, born of a noble family, who is raised in a monastery to protect him from the vicious rivalries that his father is involved with. At the age of twelve he is retrieved by his father, the Baron Conrad. No sooner does his knightly training begin, but he is kidnapped by his fathers bitterest enemy. It is a beautifully written story of love, honor, courage, chivalry, and forgiveness; one of Pyle's classic contributions to children's literature. 61 credits
Germany: Peeps at History by John Finnemore
This brief history of Germany begins with the migration of the Germanic tribes over Europe around the fifth century A.D. and ends with the Franco Prussian War and the creation of the German confederation under the leadership of Prussia. It is beautifully illustrated and covers all the major characters and events of German history in less than a hundred pages. 40 credits
Stories from German History by Florence Aston
This book covers the great tales of German history from the barbarian invasion of Rome to the Thirty Years' War. It features chapters on the rise of the Franks, Charlemagne, the ongoing conflict between the Emperor and the Pope, Frederick Barbarossa, and the dawn of the Reformation.123 credits
History of Germany by H. E. Marshall
A history of Germany from the first encounter of the Teutonic tribes with the Romans to the eve of the First World War. The first part of the book traces the migrations of the Germanic nations throughout western Europe and their unification under Charlemagne. During the middle ages the Holy Roman Empire was a loosely controlled confederacy of German states, which did not become united until Prussia rose to prominence in the 18th century.186 credits
Historical Tales: 5—German by Charles Morris
This selection of stories from German history span from the era of the Roman Empire to the foundation of the German republic in the late 19th century. Instead of a comprehensive history, the author has rewritten some of the most entertaining episode in a manner especially interesting to young adults. Familiar characters such as Frederick Barbarossa, and Luther are introduced, but so are more obscure characters such as Wittekind, Ziska, and Wallenstein.134 credits
Herman and Thusnelda by George Upton
Hermann was a chieftain who defeated the Roman army at the battle of Teutoburg Forest, a defeat which ultimately drove the Romans from Germany. This story of his life is based on historical accounts but also romanticizes the Norse gods and legends that animated the German heroes. 41 credits
Barbarossa by George Upton
Barbarossa was one of the greatest of the Holy Roman Emperors, and one of the most famous of the Crusaders. The Holy Roman Empire was in disarray, but Barbarossa did much to consolidate power and form alliances. He campaigned in Italy as well as Germany, and did much to rebuild the Empire to its former prestige. After much conflict with the Pope and his Italian allies, Barbarossa agreed to lead a Crusade but died enroute to the holy land.55 credits
Charlemagne by George Upton
There is no greater hero of the middle ages than Charlemagne, king of the Franks. He was great in war and great in peace—a conqueror, law-maker, scholar, organizer, and civilizer. He subdued savage nations, introduced learning, extended religion, encouraged the arts and sciences, and established one of the mightiest empires of the olden times. 30 credits
Youth of the Great Elector by George Upton
The Great Elector of Prussia was an ancestor of Frederick the great, but the main events of this book focus on the Thirty Years' War, which occurred during his youth. Son of Calvinist monarchs, in a Lutheran country, governed by a Catholic minister, the young Frederick was witness to all the intrigue and excesses of the tragic war which laid waste to great swaths of Germany during his lifetime.53 credits
Prince Eugene by George Upton
Eugene of Savoy, although French born, was one of the greatest generals in Austrian history and a gentleman of excellent character. Eugene's career spanned over fifty years and he served three Emperors, defending Austrian interests from both the Ottomans and the French. From his first great victory over the Ottomans at Zenta to the battle of Belgrade, he protected Christian Europe and held together the Hapsburg empire.50 credits
Swiss Heroes by George Upton
This romance is based on historical events and set in the days of Charles the Bold. It involves intertwined stories of several Swiss heroes who fought for Swiss rights by joining the forces in Europe allied against the tyrant Charles the Bold. 43 credits
William Tell by George Upton
The legend of William Tell, the Swiss patriot who shot an apple off the head of his son, is based on a true story. This book tells the story of the freedom loving Swiss and their efforts to combat the Austrian tyranny. Tell's heroic actions embolded all his countrymen who eventually won their independence from Austria. 36 credits
Vikings/Normans/Crusaders
Our Little Viking Cousin of Long Ago by C. H. Johnston
This book tells the story of a Viking boy named Biarne who travels with Leif Erikson on his voyage to Vinland in North America around the year 1000. He lives the life of a Viking adventurer, building a boat, crossing the ocean and helping to establish a settlement on in the new land. Eventually the small tribe of Vikings is attacked by natives, which they call Skrellings, and have to return to their base settlement at Greenland, but not without many treasures from the new land.49 credits
Our Little Norman Cousin of Long Ago by Evaleen Stein
A story of Normandy in the time of William the Conqueror, giving a vivid picture of manners and customs through the eyes of two boys of the court. Describes castle life, dress, amusements, training for knighthood, and other aspects of feudal life. Also relates stories of William's early days, as well as tales of his Norsemen forefathers, Duke Robert the Magnificent, Little Duke Richard, and Rolf the Ganger.41 credits
Viking Tales by Jennie Hall
This book follows the story of Harald Fairhair from the time he is given his own thrall at the cutting of his first tooth, through his exploits as a Viking adventurer, to his crowning as King of Norway. Then population pressures at home and eagerness for adventure and booty from other lands combine to drive some of the bolder Vikings to set forth from their native land. Sailing ever westward across the Atlantic, they hop along the chain of islands that loosely connects Norway with America in search of home and adventure. 58 credits
Stories of the Vikings by Mary Macgregor
This book gives a brief history of the early kings of Norway, starting with Harald Fairhair (c. 860) , who first brought dozens of separate Viking kingdoms under a single rule, to the conversion of Norway from a Pagan to a Christian kingdom, under Olaf Trygveson (c. 1015). The explorations of Leif Erikson and his family are also covered. 44 credits
Stories from the Crusades by Janet Kelman
This book brings the Crusades to life by telling the stories of its most famous heroes. It tells the story of how Peter the Hermit leads the first crusade; how three kings of Europe, including King Richard the Lionhearted of England, King Philip of France, and the Emperor Frederick of Germany, join efforts in the third crusade; and how King Louis of France launches the last crusade and is ultimately martyred.32 credits
Our Little Crusader Cousin of Long Ago by Evaleen Stein
The story of Hugh, page to King Richard the Lion-Hearted of England, and Raymond, page to Count William of France, and their adventures in Palestine during the third crusade. Through their eyes we see how, even with all their quarrels and failures, the men of the third crusade left a lasting record of gallant and heroic deeds.48 credits
Story of the Crusades by E. M. Wilmot-Buxton
This history of the Crusades gives plenty of background regarding the rise and spread of Islam into Persia and the holy lands, the rise of the Seljuk Turks and the state of Europe during the middle ages. It then briefly recounts the major characters and events involved in each of the nine crusades. 108 credits
Richard I by Jacob Abbott
This story of Richard I begins with his fascinating parents, Eleanor of Aquitaine and Henry the II, founders of the Plantagenet line of English kings. Once Richard ascends to the throne the story moves to the Holy Land, scene of the second Crusade. When Richard arrived in Acre, he found that vastly more energy was spent in posturing and infighting among the crusaders than in actually fighting the Mohammedans, but through it all, he managed to maintain a glamorous appearance of chivalry and apparent victory. 95 credits
Italy/Church
God's Troubadour: The Story of St. Francis of Assisi by Sophie Jewett
This story relates how a gay, courtly young soldier, who grew up amid wealth and privilege became a knight of Jesus Christ. After he had a vision went on a pilgrimage he gave up earthly ambitions and vowed devotion to Lady Poverty. He founded the Franciscan order of monks and proved himself a 'little brother' to all men, and a friend even to the birds and beasts. It is a charming tale and a Christian classic.34 credits
Legends and Stories of Italy by Amy Steedman
This book contains many popular legends and saint stories of Italy, from the time of the Romans to the middle ages. It includes many legends of the Madonna and Gesu Bambino, including the Christmas Rose. Saint Stories include that of Mark and the Fisherman, Domenia the Consuls wife, Flavia, Diavola, and the little Countess. 77 credits
Life of St. Benedict by F. A. Forbes
This book tells the story of St. Benedict, the founder of western Monasticism. He was born in the late fifth century as barbarians from the north and east overran the ruins of the fallen Roman empire and laid waste to the last vestiges of civilization. From this ruin, Benedict established an order of religious communities that survived the wreck of the dark ages.36 credits
Stories of the Saints by Grace Hall
Stories and Legends of over forty Saints from the time of the apostles to the sixteenth century. Most of the stories are composed of simple anecdotes and mystical occurrences of interest rather than chronological biographies. Bridget of Kildare, Ursula, Nicholas, and Charles Borromero are a few of the saints considered, along with many lesser Christian heroes. 116 credits
Saints and Heroes to the End of the Middle Ages by George Hodges
An excellent introduction to the history of the church through portraits of twenty of the most important saints and heroes of the faith from the third century A.D. to the time of the Reformation. Includes Cyprian, Athanasius, Ambrose, Chrysostom, Jerome, Augustine, Benedict, Gregory the Great, Columba, Charlemagne, Hildebrand, Anselm, Bernard, Becket, Langton, Dominic, Francis, Wycliffe, Hus, and Savonarola.69 credits
Saint Gregory the Great by Notre Dame
Gregory the Great lived in the sixth century during a time of great turmoil. The western imperial government at Rome had broken down. Germanic leaders controlled most of the old Roman provinces, commerce was hindered by lawless bandits, and civilization was breaking down. At this critical time Gregory undertook many important reforms of the Church, sent evangelists all over pagan lands, and helped to usher in the "Age of Faith" in Europe.87 credits
History of the Church: Early Middle Ages by Notre Dame
Second of a five volume history of the Church, this book covers the events following the collapse of the Roman Empire. Topics include the foundation of the monasteries, the reign of Gregory the Great, the rise of Mohammedism, Charlemagne, the Conversion of the Barbarians, the Order of Cluny, and the East-West Schism.51 credits
History of the Church: Later Middle Ages by Notre Dame
Third of a five volume history of the Church, this book covers the late middle ages, including the Crusades, the mendicant orders, heresies of the Middle Ages, the rise of the Turks, the schism of the West, the fall of Constantinople, and the discovery of America.76 credits
History of the Church: Early Modern Times by Notre Dame
Fourth of a five volume history of the Church, this book covers the events leading up to the religious revolt of the 16th century. The reformation played itself out differently in Germany, France, England, the Netherlands, and Scandinavia and all of the major developments are covered. At the same time the Church was undergoing great internal reforms and opposing the spread of Protestantism, it undertook missions throughout the World and fought off the Turkish threat in the Mediterranean.96 credits
German Reformation
William of Orange by George Upton
William of Orange was the mastermind and driving force behind the Netherlands rebellion against the tyranny of Philip II. Although William was at first a Catholic and favored religious toleration, when the Spanish governors redoubled their persecutions, he became a leader of the Protestant rebels. He gave his life, his fortune, and his whole being to the cause--losing many family members in the process, and is one of the most inspiring heroes of the Protestant cause. 41 credits
Netherlands by Mary Macgregor
The Story of the Netherlands is really the story William of Orange the great Protestant hero of Dutch independence. During the reign of Phillip II, the religious and political suppression of the lowlanders resulted in a great struggle between Spain, led by the iron-fisted Alva; and the Netherlands, led by William of Orange. After a serious of dramatic oppressions and rebellions, the Dutch finally won their independence. 132 credits
Erasmus of Rotterdam by M. Wilkinson
This short biography presents a complicated picture of Erasmus of Rotterdam, one of the most brilliant and influential men of the reformation era. A harsh critic of the church, Erasmus refused to join the revolt against priestly authority, and remained a thorn in the side of both Protestants and Catholics until the end of his days. 36 credits
Story of Liberty by Charles Coffin
This history of the early period of the reformation is written from a strongly Protestant point of view. Covering mainly the events of the sixteenth century in Europe and ending with the Pilgrims voyage to America, it frames the religious dislocations of the age as a struggle for freedom against ecclesiastic tyranny. Strongly anti-Catholic in tone. 225 credits
Martin Luther—the Story of his Life by E. Singmaster
This life story of Martin Luther that tells of incidents of his youth which influenced his ideas and characters, but it also goes into some detail regarding his theological ideas. An analysis of his major works is provided, but in easy-to-understand layman's terms. Mention is also made of the effects of his writings throughout the European community, and of his family life and later years.45 credits
European Middle Ages
Famous Men of the Middle Ages by John Haaren
Attractive biographical sketches of thirty-five of the most prominent characters in the history of the Middle Ages, from the barbarian invasions to the invention of the printing press. Subjects include Rollo the Viking, Henry the Fowler, Canute the Great, Peter the Hermit, Marco Polo, and many more. Each story is told in a clear, simple manner, and is well calculated to awaken and stimulate the youthful imagination. 98 credits
Story of the Middle Ages by S. B. Harding
Relates the history of the Middle Ages simply, directly, and entertainingly. The material is well-arranged and the selection of topics is excellent. Special attention is given to presenting the life of the people; peasant, noble, and court. A unique and valuable book. 100 credits
Barbarian and Noble by Marion Lansing
This book recounts the rise of the Germanic tribes in the period during and after the fall of the Roman empire. It introduces the heroes of the various Teutonic tribes, including Athanaric, Alaric and Roderic (Visigoths), Theodoric (Ostrogoth), Clovis, Charlemagne (Franks), and also the later heroes, Alfred the Great, Rollo the Viking. The transition from barbarian tribe to Christian nation is featured in each story. 67 credits
Patriots and Tyrants by Marion Lansing
The stories in these books recount the growth of freedom and liberty among citizens of the middle ages, beginning with German chieftains' conflicts with the Romans, and ending with the Dutch revolt against Spain. Many patriotic heroes are introduced, including Hermann, Wittekind, Hereward the Saxon, Simon de Montfort, Robert Bruce, William the Silent, and many others. 67 credits
Story of Europe by H. E. Marshall
This book presents the broader movements of European history, emphasizing the main factors which have gone into the development of the various European states from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Reformation. The history of England is included only when that country plays a prominent part in the politics of Europe. A full treatment of the period immediately following the fall of the Roman Empire is given, since that period provides the necessary key to future developments. Maps, timelines, and genealogy charts of the various royal houses of Europe contribute to making this book an excellent resource for the study of the Middle Ages in Europe.108 credits
Discovery of New Worlds by M. B. Synge
Book II of the Story of the World series covers the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, the conversion of the Germanic tribes of Europe to Christianity, the rise of Islam in the east, the European Middle Ages, the Crusades, and finally the age of exploration. The book concludes with the discoveries of Columbus and the Spanish settlements in the New World.85 credits
Awakening of Europe by M. B. Synge
Book III of the Story of the World series covers the reformation in Germany, the Netherlands, France, and England, as well as the settlement of colonies in America. Special attention is given to the rise of England and the Netherlands as sea powers, and the corresponding fall of Spain. The rise of Russia, Prussia, and Austria in the 17th and 18th centuries is also presented. 90 credits
When Knights were Bold by E. M. Tappan
Spirited and interesting picture of life in castles and manors, monasteries and towns during the Middle Ages. The description of the customs of knights is especially full. Chapter titles include Page, Squire, and Knight; The Knight's Arms and Armor; Jousts and Tournaments; How to Capture a Castle; Daily Life in a Castle; Life on a Manor; Pilgrimages and Crusades; Military Orders, Monks, and Monasteries; Hermits, Friars, and Missionaries; Life in Town; Merchant Gilds and Craft Gilds; How Goods Were Sold; Schools and Literature; Science and Medicine; and Architecture and the Arts.116 credits
European Hero Stories by E. M. Tappan
This collection of introductory biographies covers the period between the fall of the Roman Empire and the age of Napoleon. Short stories of many of the foremost characters of Europe are given, including Clovis, Charlemagne, King Arthur, Alfred the Great, and William the Conqueror, Henry the Fowler, El Cid, Richard the Lion-hearted, Gutenberg, and dozens of others, that every child should recognize. 116 credits
Legends and Literature
Stories of Roland Told to the Children by H. E. Marshall
This attractively illustrated book tells ten stories from the Song of Roland, one of the most illustrious knights of Romance. The famous hero was a nephew of Charlemagne and the most valorous Peer of France. Stories are told relating how Roland and Oliver fought and died at the battle of Roncesvalles, of Charlemagne's vengeance on Marsil the Saracen and of the punishment of the traitor Ganelon.36 credits
Stories of Siegfried Told to the Children by Mary Macgregor
Siegfried is the central character in this legend, skillfully adapted from the Nibelung, an old German poem, full of strange adventures of tiny dwarves and stalwart mortals. In this retelling of the ancient legend, Siegfried wins the accursed Rhineland treasure, takes Kriemhild as bride, and comes to an untimely end, passing the curse of the Rheingold on to his enemies.41 credits
Page—Esquire—Knight by Marion Lansing
Presents the best stories of all periods of chivalry, from the days of the founding of the Round Table to the death of Chevalier Bayard. It sets forth in simple story form the development and progress of knighthood from the time of St. George, who won his spurs by killing the dragon, to the founding, a thousand years later, of the order which bore his name and embodied in its ritual the highest ceremonial of chivalry. With its explanation of the meaning of the degrees of knighthood, its description of quests and tourneys, and its outline of the great events of chivalry, this volume will serve as a good introduction to the later reading of Arthurian and other romances, and of the history of Charlemagne's wars and the crusades.58 credits
Old Time Tales by Lawton Evans
This collection of over forty stories and legends from history are related by a master-story teller. They are perfect for reading individually or aloud. Most of the stories are from European history, since the author's other volume, America First, relates American stories. Well know stories such as William Tell, Joan of Arc, and the death of Roland are told, as well as lesser known classics such as "The Mouse Tower," "Dmitri the Pretender," and "Berth of the Big Foot."119 credits
Story of Roland by James Baldwin
These are the daring feats and exploits of Roland, worthiest of the barons of France in the time of Charlemagne, and those of Oliver and Reynauld and Ogier the Dane, all heroes who were his companions in arms and who rivaled him in the number and greatness of their exploits. The story is culled from the works of song-writers and poets of five centuries.153 credits
Story of Siegfried by James Baldwin
Legends of the Nibelungen hero, Siegfried, full of the mystery, awe, and poetry of the northern lands. They tell of how Siegfried forged the wondrous sword, Balmung, of his riding through flaming fire to awaken the maiden, Brunhild, and of the many other strange and daring deeds which he wrought. Many Norse myths are interwoven in the tale. The best rendition for children of the Siegfried legends, based on the Eddas, the Volsung Saga, and the Nibelungen-lied.111 credits
Gudrun by George Upton
Gudrun is a major character in Norse mythology and is loosely based on Kriemhild, wife of Siegfried. Her story, however, ends cheerfully as her faithfulness is ultimately rewarded by a reunion with her knightly lover. Her story is a romance of the old heroic period, written by a German poet of the thirteenth century and after the Nibelungen Lied, is the foremost of the German epic poems.46 credits
Nibelungs by George Upton
The Nibelungs is the most famous Epic in Norse mythology and is said to be based on the Royal family of Burgundy. The story begins when the wealth of the Burgundians falls into the hands of Siegfried. After helping King Gunther woo Brunhild, Siegfried marries Kriemhild, Gunther's sister. Ultimately, a row between the Queens leads to the death of both Siegfried and Kriemhild, and the loss of the treasure. 64 credits
Stories of Charlemagne and the Twelve Peers of France by Alfred J. Church
In these stories taken from the Charlemagne Romances, the swashbuckling bravado of the great age of chivalry is well preserved. Stories of Reynaud, Fierabras, Roland, Oliver, and Huon are all told with much gusto. Modern renditions of these stories sometimes tone down the comical bluster of these stories and thereby miss the humor in them. This is not so of Church's version.113 credits
Stories from Dante Told to the Children by Mary Macgregor
This simplified rendition of Dante's Inferno tells the story of the authors adventures in the underworld, and how he came to write the 'Inferno', one of the greatest epic poems in Western Civilization. The story recounts his journey with his guide Virgil, through the nine levels of hell, and finally through purgatory. Some familiarity with Greek mythology, and Renaissance Italy is helpful in understanding these tales, but they are recounted simply and beautifully.43 credits
Knights of Art: Stories of the Italian Painters by Amy Steedman
This book contains stories from the Renaissance painters of Italy, simplified from the classical Lives of the Painters by Vasari. Some of the artists whose lives are told include Giotto, Fra Angelico, Botticelli, Raphael, and Michelangelo. Color plates of many of their masterpieces are included. 83 credits