The Agony and the Ecstasy

A Biographical Novel of Michelangelo

By: Irving Stone

Narrated by: Arthur Morey

This is Irving Stone's powerful and passionate biographical novel of Michelangelo. His time: the turbulent Renaissance, the years of poisoning princes, warring popes, the all-powerful Medici family, the fanatic monk Savonarola. His loves: the frail and lovely daughter of Lorenzo de Medici; the ardent mistress of Marco Aldovrandi; and his last love--his greatest love--the beautiful, unhappy Vittoria Colonna. His genius: a God-driven fury from which he wrested the greatest art the world has ever known. Michelangelo Buonarotti, creator of "David", painter of the Sistine ceiling, architect of the dome of St Peter's, lives once more in Irving Stone's marvellous book.

A beautiful story

Wonderfully told story about a genius in a time fraught with change
History come to life with Mr. Stone's words.

I feel like I know Michelangelo now

I just finished rereading the Agony and Ecstasy in preparation for my upcoming trip to Italy. I first read it during high school as a school assignment. I knew I needed to re-read it before I went to Italy so I would be more familiar with the art and places of Italy. It helped me to get to know Italy and Michelangelo. He has so many wonderful works and it's interesting to hear the background behind the creation of each of them. I was surprised that he lived to be such an old man. No wonder he was able to do so much! What a tireless worker! There is some sensuality and sex, but it is mild and not too graphic.

Amazing, no detail left unwritten

This audiobook was awesome. It’s long, but gives you such an interesting perspective on Michelangelo’s life. I learned things about him that I didn’t know, like that he was a poet and was made head architect for St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The narrator took me a little to get used to. He definitely doesn’t speak Italian and wasn’t always great with the pronunciation, but overall was good. This audiobook is worth the listen!

Amazing!

Best book ever read, it is a must! You live eat, feel his life and the ERA!

Outstanding!

One of the most enjoyable books I have ever read. so well developed, I thought I was there!
Going to Italy in several weeks. Can’t wait to see the body of work in real form. Thank you to the narrator; wonderful job!