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Food: A Cultural Culinary History

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Food: A Cultural Culinary History

Written by: Ken Albala, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Ken Albala
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About this listen

Eating is an indispensable human activity. As a result, whether we realize it or not, the drive to obtain food has been a major catalyst across all of history, from prehistoric times to the present. Epicure Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin said it best: "Gastronomy governs the whole life of man."

In fact, civilization itself began in the quest for food. Humanity's transition to agriculture was not only the greatest social revolution in history, but it directly produced the structures and institutions we call "civilization."

In 36 fascinating lectures, award-winning Professor Albala puts this extraordinary subject on the table, taking you on an enthralling journey into the human relationship to food. With this innovative course, you'll travel the world discovering fascinating food lore and culture of all regions and eras - as an eye-opening lesson in history as well as a unique window on what we eat today.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2013 The Teaching Company, LLC (P)2013 The Great Courses Food & Wine Gastronomy World Culinary Adventures Inspiring Funny
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This course did a great job at conveying the intricacies of food and how it shapes culture. Ken Abala was very engaging, with a humorous disposition,making it very easy to listen to.

Far exceeded my expectations!

Well worth it!

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This isn't a lecture series. It's like the author is having a conversation with the listeners who are taken on this magnificent journey around food and in many ways world history recounted through the journey of food. As someone that has listened to a lot of the Great Courses lectures, this is perhaps as good as it gets!

Is there a better audio course out there?

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I am a frequent user of the Great Courses Plus and this has got to be one of my all time favourite courses. I not only found the material to be extremely fascinating (many lessons and recipes I had shared with family and friends) but also feel that this course carries many great lessons in history. I have also conversed with the professor via email and can tell you that he os a very enthusiastic and kind person who truly loves his field. If you have even a remote interest in food, this course is a must listen!

Fantastic course!

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I have watched and listened to many courses from The Teaching Company, and this one is one of my top 3 favourites. The sequencing of the lectures and Professor Abala's presentation style are excellent. I learned a lot from this course. Highly recommendable.

A great course!

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I loved this book. I never realized how much food and history are linked. The author/narrator has a very pleasing manner about him and he is very interesting to listen to. I learned A LOT!

Excellent! Informative yet fun

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