Sirana asked Jo Walton:

Your writing both on Petrarch and Pico della Mirandola has given me a nudge to finally learn more about the Renaissance. What would you consider the best introduction for somebody who basically has only school knowledge of the period? I am looking for some broad overview that I can use as a jumping off point to delve deeper into specific issues. I don't mind dry or scholarly language.

Jo Walton Guido Ruggiero's A Social History of the Renaissance would seem to me a good place to start for exactly that. Another possibility would be Najemy's History of Florence. And they are actually both well written and readable, which is a plus even if it isn't a requirement. Have fun!

Christopher Cellenza has a biography of Petrarch coming out this autumn! This is one of the things I am most looking forward to right now. Can't wait. I had almost thought I'd have to write it myself.

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