Interesting, historical read with excellent morals.
Plot
Note: This book is subtitled "The Story of Albrecht Durer."
Born to a goldsmith and the daughter of a goldsmith, Albrecht Durer was trained in art from an early age, and taught by his father to make Jesus his foundation in art. As he became an established artist, Durer continued his childhood search for true beauty, and for the truth of the scriptures.
Morality
Very good. Durer does his work for God's glory and takes his principles from the Bible. A minor character steals at one point, and this is shown as wrong, though Durer chooses to forgive him rather than pressing charges.
Spiritual Content
Durer's parents are devout, strong Christians who raise their children to serve God. The focus of the book is the growth of Durer's faith, so there are many mentions of God, the Bible, Jesus, and the Catholic Church. The Bible is particularly revered and held as being true above all else. The book shows how Durer's life ties in with the Reformation, particularly in his relationships with Erasmus and Melanchthon.
Violence
Several of Durer's siblings died of illness. He almost dies of the plague as a boy. Characters die of old age. Main characters are threatened with excommunication. Jesus' crucifixion is briefly referenced.
Drug and Alcohol Content
None.
Sexual Content
None in the book, but if the reader goes on to study Durer further, they should be aware that he painted some nudes.
Crude or Profane Language or Content
None.
Conclusion
Based on Durer's own writings in journals, letters, and books, Artist of the Reformation is a slightly fictionalized biography of a leading intellectual of the sixteenth century. This book is written simply enough to be understood by young children, yet full of deep spiritual and philosophical discussions that make it helpful to any reader. To anyone interested in art, the Renaissance, the Reformation, beauty, printing, history, teaching, or theology, I recommend this book. It has more than twenty illustrations by Durer and well over a score of direct quotes from his writing.
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