37 pages 1 hour read

Jonathan Spence

The Memory Palace Of Matteo Ricci

Nonfiction | Biography | Adult | Published in 1984

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Memory Palace of Matteo Ricci by Jonathan Spence examines the life of 16th-century Jesuit priest Matteo Ricci, focusing on his mission to introduce Catholic mnemonic techniques to Ming China's scholarly elites. The book is organized around the memory palace method and specific images Ricci used, exploring themes like war, travel, missionary work, wealth, poverty, morality, and Marian imagery.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Jonathan Spence's The Memory Palace of Matteo Ricci is widely praised for its detailed portrayal of Ricci's captivating journey as a Jesuit missionary in China. Reviews highlight Spence's masterful narrative and thorough research. However, some find the intricate details overwhelming. Overall, it is an enriching read for those interested in historical and cultural exchanges.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Memory Palace Of Matteo Ricci?

A reader who enjoys The Memory Palace of Matteo Ricci by Jonathan Spence would likely have a deep interest in historical narratives, cross-cultural encounters, and intellectual history. Fans of The Journey of Ibn Fattouma by Naguib Mahfouz or Guns, Germs, and Steel by Jared Diamond would find this book compelling.

Recommended

Reading Age

18+years

Book Details

Themes

Emotions/Behavior: Memory

Values/Ideas: Religion & Spirituality

Values/Ideas: Art

Genre

Philosophy

Biography

Chinese Literature

Topics

Philosophy

History: World

Religion / Spirituality