I found this book fascinating/enjoyable and very heavy in equal parts. It also made me realise my ignorance about several of the subjects that were raised in the book. I think the book was a huge challenge to read and to do it justice I think the reader needs to have:

1. Some basic latin
2.Some knowledge of the historical period
3.Some knowledge and understanding of theology in order to follow some of the discussions.

In between the long passages and discourses, I thought the book was a really good whodunnit with lots of death/intrigue/atmosphere/pace and suspense. Some parts read like a modern novel. It was also a wonderful insight into monastic life with the descriptions of tasks and daily events that made up their day especially the work done in the library. It made me realise what wonderful treasures were lost with the destruction of the monasteries.

William was a real Sherlock Holmes with Adso as Watson his sidekick. Just like Sherlock, he was patronising and downright rude to his assistant but there were moments when William rather grudgingly gave the novice credit for an idea or hunch. William was very human and understanding and had a dry sense of humour tinged with humility. He had a mind ready to embrace the changes and new knowledge that was creeping into Europe at the birth of the Renaissance.

2  out of 2 found this valuable. Do you find this valuable? Do you?    

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