What the critics are saying about "Erasmus and Voltaire - Why They Still Matter"

'Cultural history, comparative literature, historical typology and intellectual history all in one, Erasmus and 'Cultural history, comparative literature, historical typology and intellectual history all in one, Erasmus and Voltaire is Ricardo J. Quinones's summa-an impassioned celebration of two literary giants.  In a series of powerful and close readings of Erasmus and Voltaire, Quinones reflects on the modern condition with penetrating ancillary commentaries that range from Shakespeare to Thomas Mann.  Writing with the urgency and fervor of a pamphleteer, the author calls for a restoration of the courage, benevolence, imagination, gradualism, sanity, and ultimate illumination that we discover in his two subjects.  This is a book that should be read by all literary scholars, historians, philosophers-and statesmen!'
Paul Barolsky, Art History, University of Virginia

'Ricardo Quinones, the principal proponent of "Dualisms," that fascinating category of intellectual rivalry, has written a complementary book bringing together figures of similar type living centuries apart. His expectation that this comparison will enhance the importance of both his exemplars, Erasmus and Voltaire, is amply realized.'
Eva Brann, Senior Faculty and Dean Emerita, St. John's College

'Extremely worldly and sophisticated, Erasmus and Voltaire both engaged with the most important ideas of their times. Champions of civilization and tradition, they were revolutionary in some ways, but ready to hold the line in contradistinction to the more rebellious ideologues of their time. It is always a pleasure to read the work of Ricardo J. Quinones, and this fine study brings to light the parallel development of these two figures, with a clarity and appeal I have never before seen in writing on either Erasmus or Voltaire.'
David M. Hertz, Department of Comparative Literature, Indiana University

'In Erasmus and Voltaire, Ricardo J. Quinones' erudition and soaring thought allow him to offer original insights into the works of these two intellectual giants. By juxtaposing the lived experiences and writings of both Erasmus and Voltaire, this superb study makes one figure a foil for the other and gives depth and piquancy to what is an eloquent interpretation of their lives.'
Erika Rummel, Department of History, University of Toronto