Rudolf II: The Life and Legend of the Mad Emperor

by Thomas DaCosta Kaufmann

Rudolf The Life and Legend of the Mad Emperor offers a fresh perspective on the Habsburg ruler, shedding new light on a reign often coloured by myths of madness. Contrary to popular belief, Rudolf was not a passive recluse but an engaged monarch, navigating the complexities of state affairs with a moderate hand amid turbulent times. By contextualizing his interests in astrology, alchemy and magic, Thomas DaCosta Kaufmann offers new insights into Rudolf’s support for scientific endeavours and his quest for power. It also demonstrates that Rudolf’s assembling of the greatest Kunstkammer and painting collection of his time and his patronage of artists were essential elements of Renaissance rulership. This book will appeal to a diverse audience, including enthusiasts of the occult, as well as those fascinated by Renaissance history, the Habsburg dynasty and art history.

Genres: Biography

288 pages, Hardcover

Published April 9, 2025

Reviews

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

brb - adding Rudie to the list of historical figures I will defend until the end.

As an art historian this was a very useful book if you want to analyse the Rudolphine art production. It was set up in a clear way, complete with sources and pictures. This was more or less my introduction to Rudolf.

The book however is set up like an argumentative structure - it serves a purpose of re-evaluating Rudolf as a mad king (made me think of Richard III: Brother, Protector, King by Chris Skidmore). Because of this structure, I can imagine this book doesn't work for most casual readers. Personally, I also struggled with the whole Habsburg Europe of the 16th century - as a Dutch art historian studying the Dutch 17th century, the wars and the lineage was hard to follow.

[Truls Ljungström · Rating 3 out of 5]

Konsthistoriskt trevlig biografi som fokuserar på Rudolf II som samlare och hans egen världsbild mer än det han inte riktigt lyckades göra som konung.