Spice: The History of a Temptation

Jack Turner

Quick Take

A brilliant, original history of the spice trade--and the appetites that fueled it. It was in search of the fabled Spice Islands and their cloves that Magellan charted the first circumnavigation of the globe. Vasco da Gama sailed the dangerous waters around Africa to India on a quest for Christians--and spices. Columbus sought gold and pepper but found the New World. By the time these fifteenth- and sixteenth-century explorers set sail, the aromas of these savory, seductive seeds and powders had tempted the palates and imaginations of Europe for centuries. "Spice: The History of a Temptation "is a history of the spice trade told not in the conventional narrative of politics and economics, nor of conquest and colonization, but through the intimate human impulses that inspired and drove it. Here is an exploration of the centuries-old desire for spice in food, in medicine, in magic, in religion, and in sex--and of the allure of forbidden fruit lingering in the scents of cinnamon, pepper, ginger, nutmeg, mace, and clove. We follow spices back through time, through history, myth, archaeology, and literature. We see spices in all their diversity, lauded as love potions and aphrodisiacs, as panaceas and defenses against the plague. We journey from religious rituals in which spices were employed to dispel demons and summon gods to prodigies of gluttony both fantastical and real. We see spices as a luxury for a medieval king's ostentation, as a mummy's deodorant, as the last word in haute cuisine. Through examining the temptations of spice we follow in the trails of the spice seekers leading from the deserts of ancient Syria to thrill-seekers on the Internet. We discover howspice became one of the first and most enduring links between Asia and Europe. We see in the pepper we use so casually the relic of a tradition linking us to the appetites of Rome, Elizabethan England, and the pharaohs. And we capture the pleasure of spice not only at the table but in every part of life. "Spice "is a delight to be savored.

Reader's Review

Book Review Summary: Spice: The History of a Temptation

Introduction

"Spice: The History of a Temptation" by Jack Turner is a captivating exploration of the history of spices and their allure throughout the ages. This book delves into the human impulses that fueled the spice trade, examining the cultural, religious, and culinary associations that spices have held throughout history. From their use as love potions and aphrodisiacs to their role in medicine and culinary arts, Turner takes readers on a journey through time, uncovering the diversity and complexity of spices.

About Jack Turner

Jack Turner, the author of "Spice: The History of a Temptation," is a renowned historian and writer. With a deep understanding of the subject matter, Turner brings his expertise to the book, providing readers with a comprehensive and engaging account of the history of spices. His writing style is both accessible and informative, making the book enjoyable for readers with various backgrounds.

Analysis of Views

Engaging Exploration: Readers praise Turner's ability to delve into the human impulses that fueled the spice trade. The book offers an engaging exploration of the cultural, religious, and culinary associations that spices have held throughout history.
Diverse Perspectives: Turner covers a wide range of topics related to spices, including their use in medicine, religion, and literature. Readers appreciate the diverse perspectives presented in the book, which provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.
In-Depth Research: Many readers commend Turner's extensive research and attention to detail. The book is filled with fascinating historical facts and anecdotes that bring the subject matter to life.
Engaging Storytelling: Turner's storytelling skills are highly praised by readers. The book is not just a collection of facts but a captivating narrative that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.
Recommendation: Readers highly recommend "Spice: The History of a Temptation" to anyone interested in history, food, or culture. They find the book to be a fascinating read that offers a unique perspective on the history of spices and their impact on human civilization.

Reasons for Recommendation

Comprehensive Coverage: Turner covers a broad range of topics related to spices, from their use in ancient times to their role in modern cuisine. This comprehensive coverage allows readers to gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Engaging Storytelling: Turner's storytelling skills make the book enjoyable to read. The anecdotes and historical facts presented in the book are engaging and keep readers interested throughout.
Accessible Writing Style: Turner's writing style is accessible and easy to understand, making it suitable for readers with various backgrounds. The book is both informative and entertaining, making it an excellent choice for those looking to learn about the history of spices.

Reasons for Not Recommendation

Disorganized Structure: Some readers find the structure of the book disorganized, with jumps between time periods and cultures that make it difficult to follow. They suggest that a more coherent narrative structure would enhance the overall reading experience.
Limited Focus on Non-European Perspectives: A few readers feel that the book focuses too much on European perspectives and does not adequately explore the impact of spices on non-European cultures. They suggest that a more balanced approach would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the subject matter.

Conclusion

"Spice: The History of a Temptation" by Jack Turner is a captivating exploration of the history and allure of spices throughout the ages. With its engaging storytelling, comprehensive coverage, and accessible writing style, this book offers readers an enjoyable and informative journey through the world of spices. While some readers find the structure disorganized and lacking in non-European perspectives, overall, "Spice" is highly recommended for those interested in history, food, or culture.