Brittany

by Philippe Barbour

Full of practical information and sprinkled with entertaining legends, adventures and literary tales, th e Cadogan Guide to Brittany brings to life the Breton cultur e both on the coast and inland '

Genres: Travel

632 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 1998

Reviews

[Jennifer]

My main problem with this book is that the author, despite being of Breton descent, did not seem to have much respect for the local traditions and history of this region. As a student of history myself, I do of course realize it's important to distinguish between fact and myth. I think, however, this can be done without snide, unprofessional remarks. In addition, some historical events were presented incorrectly. For example, it's stated on page 36 that the Roman Emperor Constantine made Christianity the state religion and outlawed all other religions. That is not accurate. Constantine issued the Edit of Milan, which made Christianity a legal religion to practice in the Empire. Errors like this one cause me to question everything else relating to history in the book.

I bought this book because I wanted to learn more about Breton culture as well as travel information. I can't vouch for the travel parts, as I haven't gone there yet. Glad I don't base my desire to visit on the disinformation in this book; otherwise I might have never wished to go there.

[Mojca]

4 stars