Casanova

Written by John Masters

Narrated by Simon Vance

Giacomo Casanova’s reputation rests largely on his obsession with women, but he was much more than the great eighteenth-century lover. Lawyer, mathematician, poet, translator, and librarian who was fluent in several languages, he was described by one contemporary as “the most civilized man in Europe.” That he was also a con man, cabalist, spy, revenge-taker, and experienced prisoner only enhances his appeal as one who personified the extreme social and moral contradictions of the time.

In chronicling the life of this bastard son of Venetian actors, Masters draws from Casanova’s own highly expansive memoirs, unavailable until the 1960s, and shows that many of the most racy and unlikely events in his adventure-filled life story have been corroborated by fact.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Blackstone Publishing
• Release date: Mar 30, 2009
• ISBN: 9781481578028

John Masters

John Masters was commissioned into the Gurkha Rifles on the eve of the Second World War and rose to command one of the Chindit columns fighting behind the lines against the Japanese in Burma. He left the Army after the war to pursue a very profitable career as a novelist.

Reviews for Casanova

[jaylivernois · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A good illustrated biography of Casanova needing an update given new findings and research.

[kirconnell · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I wasn't too sure about this book at first, but it surprised me with its well-researched and sympathetic view of one of the world's greatest lovers. Masters brings to life a world we would never guess at or maybe understand. Casanova was a rogue (almost a criminal at times), generous, intelligent, a good writer, a commentator on his times, a historian, and an extremely interesting character. I found the book to be fascinating and the shocking conclusions that the author reaches left me breathless. Recommended.