| Description: | This course is an introduction to the important women of the house of the Medici (1368 - 1743). Particular emphasis will be given to their biographies and their unique roles in history. The Medici are the best-known and most prestigious Italian family, their history developed over four centuries and embraced thirteen generations. Their name is linked to the history of Florence. From simple bankers and merchants they became one of the most important families in Europe. In the story of the Medici family only a few of the women lived and acted as equals to men. Yet, some of these Medici women were more intelligent, more open and more positive than many of their masculine counterparts. We will explore four centuries of the Medici family, its men, its children, its power and its role in Florentine, Italian and European life, looking through the lens of the Medici women's lives. |