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Storming the Capitol

Episode 3 of 10

Having built a career as a goldsmith, Cellini turns soldier during one of the Renaissance鈥檚 most terrible moments: the Sack of Rome in 1527.

Jerry Brotton is Professor of Renaissance Studies at Queen Mary University of London and wants us to take a fresh look at a period in European history usually associated with beauty, harmony and art. His approach contains a health warning: the Renaissance was a lot darker and violent than many of us have imagined. Retracing the life of Benvenuto Cellini through his shocking autobiography, Jerry reveals how this was a time of conflict as well as beauty, creativity as well as tyranny.

Having built a career as a goldsmith, Cellini turns soldier during one of the Renaissance鈥檚 most terrible moments: the Sack of Rome in 1527. As he defends the city, he melts down the pope鈥檚 jewellery as the fighting reaches its climax.

Reader Marco Gambino

Producer Mark Rickards

A Whistledown Scotland Production

Available now

14 minutes

Last on

Wed 26 Jul 2023 22:45

Broadcasts

  • Wed 24 Mar 2021 22:45
  • Wed 26 Jul 2023 22:45

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