We all recognise the name Nostradamus, but the man behind the myth remains shrouded in mystery. In this meticulously researched biography, historian Stéphane Gerson separates the historical Michel de Nostredame from the legendary prophet of doom. Rather than merely recounting a life, Gerson explores how an obscure Renaissance astrologer was transformed over five centuries into a modern oracle.
From the shifting political landscapes of the sixteenth century to the panicked reactions following global catastrophes like the 9/11 attacks, this book examines why societies consistently turn to Nostradamus during times of uncertainty. By tracing his reception across eras—from the Great Fire of London to the anxieties of the twentieth century—Gerson reveals that our enduring obsession with his cryptic quatrains says less about the future and more about our own present fears and hopes. Engaging, intellectual, and thoroughly accessible, this narrative offers a fascinating look at the intersection of history, human belief, and the cultural power of prophecy. It is an essential read for anyone intrigued by how myths are constructed and why they persist in our modern world.
Used (good, see images, some yellowing) Hardcover ISBN 9780312613686
