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Food: A Cultural Culinary History  By  cover art

Food: A Cultural Culinary History

By: Ken Albala, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Ken Albala
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Publisher's summary

Eating is an indispensable human activity. As a result, whether we realize it or not, the drive to obtain food has been a major catalyst across all of history, from prehistoric times to the present. Epicure Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin said it best: "Gastronomy governs the whole life of man."

In fact, civilization itself began in the quest for food. Humanity's transition to agriculture was not only the greatest social revolution in history, but it directly produced the structures and institutions we call "civilization."

In 36 fascinating lectures, award-winning Professor Albala puts this extraordinary subject on the table, taking you on an enthralling journey into the human relationship to food. With this innovative course, you'll travel the world discovering fascinating food lore and culture of all regions and eras - as an eye-opening lesson in history as well as a unique window on what we eat today.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2013 The Great Courses

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Riveting course about the food/human relationship

A good, beginning examination of food and cultures as they shape the future.

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Very enjoyable and educational

It is a great listen. While at work it was something simple to stop and pause when necessary. He does use what sounds like some visuals for the cooking in the lectures. Even without the visuals it is fine. The other important thing to mention is that he brings life to the lecture. Its NOT a dull monotone listen.

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Fabulous survey of food history

I've convinced at least 4 of my friends to listen to this. it's absolutely fascinating.

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Changes Everything

I read a lot of books, especially history. This is the most tangible and interesting version of society I've ever read. I've recommended it to everyone I know - not just foodies- because it honestly changes your view of the world. I'm genuinely sad I can't read it for the first time again and will research more from this author.

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Amazing

I really enjoyed this course. It was interesting and informative, it gave a well rounded base about the history of food. I really like that it told the fundamental aspects about food in many different time periods and many different places (not only Europe). Also, the lecturer was entertaining his excitement about things was infectious.

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recipe of humanity

Superb listen of how history and food mix.
Listened to it twice in a row.
Recommended it to others.

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Perfect Series for a Food Lover!

This lecture series was a perfect companion for me while I prepared dinner. The narrator is entertaining and clearly loves the subject. Interesting historical flavor combinations and new recipe ideas along with history and facts. This is going on repeat!

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Surprisingly good!

Very well done....quite varied and humorous but I learned so much. There are a couple moments clearly unsuited to an audiobook instead of a visual presentation, but they are seldom, and you can always tell what he is doing or showing. Pace and selection of topics is perfect, and unlike some Great Courses teachers he sounds very natural and spontaneous, not just reading off a prepared script. Nicely done!

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Food History

Being a Chef, who has studied food history before. I found this very enjoyable and learned even more. Well worth the time

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great info, great topic

loved the information and the topic. lots of historical perspective on food. one bad thing is that I got the impression that the lecturer is a communist. references government regulating and controlling food a lot towards the end.

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