The Passion of Artemisia

By: Susan Vreeland

Narrated by: Gigi Bermingham

At age 18, Artemisia Gentileschi finds herself humiliated in papal court for publicly accusing her painting teacher of rape. When even her father does not stand up for her, she realizes that her reputation in Rome is ruined, and she begs to have a marriage arranged for her. Her husband takes her to Florence, where their life together offers the promise of love and family. Artemisia's painting talent blossoms and she becomes the first woman elected to the Accademia dell' Arte. But marriage clashes with her newfound fame, and she begins a lifelong search to reconcile painting and motherhood, passion and genius.

Set against the glorious backdrops of Rome, Florence, and Genoa, and Naples, peopled with historical characters and filled with the details of the life of a 17th-century painter, The Passion of Artemisia is the story of Gentileschi's struggle to find love, forgiveness, and wholeness through her art.

©2002 Susan Vreeland (P)2002 HighBridge Company

Critic reviews

"The Passion of Artemisia offers a vivid portrait of a complex female artist who doggedly pursues her passion despite seemingly overwhelming obstacles." (Booklist)
"Vreeland's remarkable ability...makes this novel an accomplished work of art." (San Francisco Chronicle)

I loved the authors interpretation of Artemisia Gentileschi's life

Especially the way she thought Artemisia resolved her father's complicity in her torture. She takes several liberties with history and Artemisia's part in it as well as not mentioning her other children and her brother or accurately portraying her husband. But I suspect those omissions were to center on the resolve that Artemisia would evolve with the help of the two Sisters. I would recommend this story but not for it's factual representation of Artemisia Gentileschi's life.

Engrossing

No, it wasn't a biography, but the story was beautiful and I think very realistic. I think that the emotions expressed by the narrator went along very well with the book, and the story was engrossing and poignant.

La Dolce Vita!

As an artist and also a victim of rape, I identified with Artemisia. Her story is endearing and inciteful, unfolding the life of a female artist in the 1600's plus dealing with the struggles of women, whether 400 years ago or today. I recommend this book to those who embrace art and womanhood. The narrator's voice is pure emotion.
Downside - I hated the ending. It left me wanting more.

outstanding

wonderful interwoven history of art and artist. that contexualises te novel. authentic choice of words and
language generally ar superb, excellent narration,

An unknown artist brought to life

I had never heard of Artemesia Gentileschi, but this made me want to know more about her. The artworks I've found online are certainly the equal to anything from the period. The story, while fictionalized, gives plausible motivations for her art. I thoroughly enjoyed it!