Food: A Cultural Culinary History

By: Ken Albala, The Great Courses

Narrated by: Ken Albala

Length: 18 hrs and 22 mins

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

Very neat set of lectures about where food is from

Neat series about where food is from, but basically everything is mingled a bit, and it is difficult to keep all these things straight when the information is given verbally. I would have liked this more if it explained more of why things are eaten in a certain way instead of just a descriptor of what is where....not just a "Scotland has potatoes." but more of a "how come?"...without the why, of where things can be found, it is hard to remember which things are where.

Interesting and insightful history on food!

I really enjoyed this lecture series. I eating all kinds of food so naturally a cultural history of food would be fascinating to me. What I found most interesting was how food really reflected major historical changes in human history. Professor Abala was also a very lively lecturer who is obviously passionate about the subject matter and passes on that enthusiasm to his listeners. I learned a lot of great facts about where foods come from that will make me look at all kinds of foods with a greater appreciation! Definitely recommend.

Educational, yet very entertaining

What made the experience of listening to Food: A Cultural Culinary History the most enjoyable?

The professor weaves together the story of food, food production, cooking and eating on various peoples' culture since the beginning to agriculture to today's genetically modified foods.

What was one of the most memorable moments of Food: A Cultural Culinary History?

One of the reasons Martin Luther protested the Roman Catholic Church's ban on consumption of animal products during lent was because the geographic region where Luther was located depended on butter as the main cooking fat instead of olive oil.

What about Professor Ken Albala’s performance did you like?

I liked everything about his presentation. Excellent story teller and educator.

Any additional comments?

A must listen for anyone who is interested in food, cooking and history.

Great Overview

This is a comforting trip down well established roads, but there are delightful views along the way. Well worth a listen. Bring paper and pen to write down source materials if you are so inclined.

NOT WHAT I THOUGHT, BUT TURNED OUT TO BE GREAT

What did you love best about Food: A Cultural Culinary History?

The book turned out to be somewhat different from what I expected, but great nevertheless. A must-read for any educated person.

I thoroughly enjoyed this course

This course is a great way to round out your understanding of history and I loved his presentation.

Second helping please!

Could NOT get enough.....Time flew by and even re-listened to some pivotal points so I could remember precise details . The history is Woven together and presented logically. LOVED IT!!

Loved this audiobook!

Will definitely listen to again so I catch the bus and pieces I missed the first time.

I savored every moment.

I love history. this has helped me gain a greater appreciation of the food I eat at the dinner table, and a higher estimation of all that we have available to us in this period of history.

This, right here!

This book shows the evolution of humans and our relation to food. Absolutely something everyone should listen to.