Italian Reflections (Cont.): The Platypus Travels Part XV

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The Duomo of Florence.  A debate developed among my students as to whether this is an ugly building.  As most of them are realist (as opposed to mannerists), the debate went beyond the level of "well I just think..." and "in my own personal opinion."  It was fascinating to talk with them as they tried to work out their own theories of aesthetics.

The poor pictures I was able to take don't really do the question justice, but what do you think: is this an ugly building?






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