Bridge Over the Abyss. The Entire History of Art in One Book

In your hands is the most complete edition of the cycle “Bridge Over the Abyss,” based on the unique series of lectures by Paola Dmitrievna Volkova. “The title for both the book and the program was chosen not by chance,” Paola Dmitrievna explained. “Because the image of a bridge is the image of world culture—without which we wouldn’t exist as a civilization.”

A brilliant teacher and storyteller, through her books, lectures, and even just conversations, she instilled in her students and interlocutors a sense of beauty—trying to reach their souls and clear away the accumulated grayness. One of the most iconic books for any educated person, “Bridge Over the Abyss” invites us on a journey through the centuries, where we follow her skillful narration, become involved in the story, and rethink images familiar to us.

This edition presents the revised cycle “Bridge Over the Abyss” in the form in which it was conceived by Paola Dmitrievna herself—chronologically, in historical order. It will also include previously unpublished lectures from her personal archive.