Memoirs of the Dukes of Urbino, Volume 3 (of 3): Illustrating the Arms, Arts, and Literature of Italy, from 1440 To 1630

"Memoirs of the Dukes of Urbino, Volume 3 (of 3)" by James Dennistoun is a historical account written in the mid-19th century. This volume explores the lives and political contexts of the Dukes della Rovere who ruled Urbino from 1440 to 1630, detailing their contributions to the arms, arts, and literature of Italy. The narrative likely focuses on significant events of the period, such as the sack of Rome and the complexities of Italian politics involving the Papacy and external powers. The opening of the volume describes the critical moment leading to the sack of Rome, illustrating the chaotic circumstances surrounding the event. It details the Pope's misguided confidence and poor military preparations that left the city vulnerable to Bourbon’s imperial forces. As the attack begins, the narrative captures the ensuing panic, the dynamics of leadership failures, and the brutal reality of the sack itself—depicting the atrocities committed against the city's inhabitants. The author sets the stage for an in-depth exploration of power struggles and the impact of these historical incidents on the society and culture of 16th-century Italy.