Review of the birth of venus. Literature & Language Essay (Essay Sample)

The Birth of Venus is a novel by author Sarah Dunant. This novel is set in thirteenth-century Florence where twelve-year-old Alessandra desperately wants to become an artist. However, it is inappropriate for a young girl to be educated let alone pursue a passion like art. Instead, Alessandra is expected to marry and give birth to many children. Alessandra does marry but her marriage is not traditional, leaving Alessandra with the freedom she always dreamed of having. The Birth of Venus is a historical novel that takes the reader on a journey through thirteenth century Florence through the eyes of a young woman who is both courageous and innocent. It is a novel of love and betrayal but also a novel of personal growth.
Alessandra watches as her father arrives home with a painter hired to paint frescos in the family chapel. Alessandra is excited by this painter's arrival because she too would like to be a great painter one day. Alessandra reaches out to this man, hoping for some lessons on how to create the great colors he uses every day but he refuses her. The painter grew up in a monastery where it is improper for a man to speak to such a young naive young girl. Alessandra refuses to give up however, and the two slowly start a secret affair.