Flesh in the Age of Reason: The Modern Foundations of Body and Soul

Rating:
Summary: Interesting, But...
Review: Having come late to Porter, but immediately smitten by his wonderful writing, I have read several of his books and enjoyed them all, particularly his "social" and medical works. But this one has me a bit stymied. The subject matter is facially interesting, changing perceptions and characterizations of "body and soul" over the course of the Enlightenment. But Porter's execution struck me as a bit too ponderous to consistently maintain reader interest. When I take up a History book, I generally "can't put it down" if the subject matter is of at least some interest to me and the writing is better than passable. Well, the late Dr. Porter's writing is as good as I've ever come across, but I must say I found it all too easy to put this book down. Indeed, I had pretty much given up on it, but then decided to go back and finish it. I'm glad I did, but the exercise only validated in my mind that the book wandered far too much for my taste and seemed to lack a cohesiveness both atypical and unworthy of Porter. But if you're a Porter fan, I suggest you read it anyway, if only to be reminded what a wonderful writer he was. I only wish his last work were among his best.

Rating:
Summary: Great Read
Review: I cannot believe no one has reviewed Roy Porter's last book. It reminds me of the Metaphysical Club, but it is perhaps a bit more wry. I enjoyed it thoroughly and have added it to my collection of books on the Enlightenment. It was simultaneously funny and intellectual stimulating. Also, Porter makes the subject of the Enlightmentment exciting.