Albert and the Whale
Albert and the Whale
Book Brief
Beta304
Book • Nonfiction
Various Locations • 16th Century
2021
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
In Albert and the Whale, Philip Hoare connects the life of artist Albert Dürer with nature, particularly whales. The book explores themes of art, life, and humanity's relationship with the natural world, weaving historical and personal narratives to illuminate Dürer's influence and legacy.
Contemplative
Informative
Mysterious
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
In Albert and the Whale, Philip Hoare explores art, nature, and the sea, inspired by both Albrecht Dürer and the titular whale. Critics praise the lyrical prose and rich historical insights. However, some find the narrative structure meandering. Overall, the book is celebrated for its imaginative and reflective depth on the interconnectedness of life.
Who Should Read Albert and the Whale?
A reader intrigued by the intersection of art, nature, and biography will relish Albert and the Whale. Fans of The Hidden Life of Trees and The Soul of an Octopus will appreciate its blend of history, science, and storytelling that explores human connections to the natural world.
716 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Philip Hoare in Albert and the Whale intertwines the life of the great artist Albrecht Dürer with the majestic presence of whales, creating a unique narrative that explores art, nature, and history in unexpected ways.
The book delves into the idea that Dürer's famous engravings and art pieces may have been influenced by his encounters with wildlife and the natural world, offering a fresh perspective on the artist's work.
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While exploring themes of wonder and the sublime, Albert and the Whale also examines humanity's long-standing fascination with the ocean and its creatures, reflecting on how this relationship has inspired artists throughout history.
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304
Book • Nonfiction
Various Locations • 16th Century
2021
Adult
18+ years
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