Introduction

You''re no idiot, of course. You know there''s more to Italy''s rich tapestry than spaghetti and the Sicilian Mafia, but you also know you have a lot to learn about the country that brought you the paintings of Michelangelo, the poetry of Dante, and the Ferrari of your dreams.

Get Ready to Indulge

''The Complete Idiot''s Guide to Italian History and Culture'' will satisfy your thirst for all things Italian with its in-depth information about Italian art and literature, wine and cooking, and famous Italians and Italian Americans. In this ''Complete Idiot''s Guide'', you get:

• Secrets of Italian cooking sure to whet your appetite!
• The Italian-American connection, from pizza to the Mafia to soccer.
• A comprehensive look at the centuries-long struggle to unify Italy.
• The power and glory of the Renaissance.