Böcker av George Herman

The end of life's journey. In this final chapter in Leonardo's life, we are given an insight into the internal and external struggles of a great man not appreciated in his time. His unorthodox thinking and search for truth in all things conflicted with the beliefs of the Vatican and his exposure of the corruption of powerful nobles earned him enemies determined to discredit and destroy him. The political and religious climate in Italy has become too dangerous for him. So it is, with a heavy heart Leonardo says good-bye to his home and friends in Florence, Rome and Milan to spend his final days in France at the invitation of the King. What he finds in France is the peace and quiet he so ardently desires but the demons of age and the gnawing feeling of failure disturb him. We see a man in his final years with regrets for things not accomplished and so many projects unfinished or destroyed. The French King commissions Leonardo to build a labyrinth in a secret garden as a symbol of man's path through life. This project and his portrait of John the Baptist draw him toward a shadowy secret brotherhood of scholars. His relationship with this organization further moves him into a study of the occult. His unquenchable thirst for knowledge and his involvement with the secret brotherhood will lead to him being accused of heresy. "The author's research into the life of Leonardo da Vinci spans decades and the result is a detailed and in-depth portrait of the man with all his foibles, insecurities and genius." Leonardo comes to realize life is like a labyrinth, just when you think you have found your way out there is an obstacle. Reward is a new heavenly adventure.

A commedia dell' arte group wanders by mistake into the eye of an allegory. They are humanity, wayward saints all, who are far from home and without means. A nobleman may be their salvation if they can put on a good show for him. Surprisingly, the Company chooses to present the history of man, from the Garden of Eden through Everyman in birth, adolescence, marriage and death. Along the way they enact other wayward adventures such as the assassination of Julius Caesar and the homecoming of Odysseus. It is a fine mosaic of life redeemed by humor and human understanding.