"[A] delightful study. . . . His remarkably lucid and readable essay is full of contemporary relevance and informed by the energies of a man in love with his subject."--Robert Taylor, Boston Globe

"A model of what a historical survey should be."--Richard J. Morris, Los Angeles Times

"This survey of the aesthetics off medieval Latin civilization . . . reveals the insight and eloquence that would later gain him worldwide fame after the release of his novel, The Name of the Rose."--Alida Beccker, Philadelphia Inquirer

"An original and illuminating synthesis of disciplines usually treated separately."--Sunday Times

"The book lays out so many exciting ideas and interesting facts that readers will find it gripping."--Washington Post Book World

"Fresh and useful in this highly readable translation. . . . A brief but accurate introduction to a vast field."--Library Journal

"For as complex as this book is, it is written lucidly and engagingly and gets its points across in a concise and interesting manner."--Patricia L. Kleeberger, Art Documentation

"This study stands by itself as a monograph on the development of the aesthetic principles and problems that engaged the Schoolmen from the sixth through the 15th century. More than a history of theory, this essay is an absorbing synthesis of theology, science, poetry, and mysticism with artistic theory and practice--providing comprehensive insight into medieval culture."--Choice

"Some original insights into an era that was previously regarded by many as devoid of aesthetic ideals and criteria."--Kirkus Reviews

"A welcome paperback edition of a translation first published in 1986 of the original Sviluppo dell'estetica medievale."--Manuscripta

"Offer[s] as good a general introduction to medieval aesthetics and art theory as one is likely to find in English. . . . The book is filled . . . with quite wonderful material."--Russell Peck, The Baltimore Morning Sun