Description
Book Synopsis: A groundbreaking anthology that probes the disposition towards the visually different - Giants. Midgets. Tribal non-Westerners. The very fat. The very thin. Hermaphrodites. Conjoined twins. The disabled. The very hirsute. In American history, all have shared the platform equally, as freaks, human oddities, their only commonality their assigned role of anomalous other to the gathered throngs. For the price of a ticket, freak shows offered spectators an icon of bodily otherness whose difference from them secured their own membership in a common American identity - by comparison ordinary, tractable, normal.
Rosemarie Thomson's groundbreaking anthology probes America's disposition toward the visually different. The book's essays fall into four main categories: historical explorations of American freak shows in the era of P.T. Barnum; the articulation of the freak in literary and textual discourses; contemporary relocations of freak shows; and theoretical analyses of freak culture. Essays address such diverse topics as American colonialism and public presentations of natives; laughing gas demonstrations in the 1840's; Shirley Temple and Tom Thumb; Todd Browning's landmark movie Freaks; bodybuilders as postmodern freaks; freaks in Star Trek; Michael Jackson's identification with the Elephant Man; and the modern talk show as a reconfiguration of the freak show.
In her introduction, Thomson traces the freak show from antiquity to the modern period and explores the constitutive, political, and textual properties of such exhibits. Freakery is a fresh, insightful exploration of a heretofore neglected aspect of American mass culture.
Details
Are you ready to be captivated? Dive into the visually stunning world of "Freakery: Cultural Spectacles of the Extraordinary Body." This groundbreaking anthology delves into the fascination with the visually different, from giants and midgets to the disabled and conjoined twins. Step right up and discover the allure of the freak show that has captivated America for centuries.
Through a collection of thought-provoking essays, "Freakery" explores the historical significance of freak shows, their impact on literature and pop culture, and their reimagining in contemporary society. Uncover the untold stories of American colonialism and public presentations of natives, find out about the mesmerizing laughing gas demonstrations of the 1840s, and gain insights into the remarkable lives of iconic figures like Shirley Temple and Tom Thumb.
As you journey through the pages, you'll encounter a myriad of topics, from Todd Browning's groundbreaking movie "Freaks" to the bodybuilders who redefine the concept of freak in the modern world. Explore the intersections of freak culture and popular TV shows like Star Trek, and delve into the captivating connection between Michael Jackson and the Elephant Man. Plus, don't miss the fascinating analysis of how the modern talk show has transformed into a reconfiguration of the classic freak show.
"Freakery" is not just a book, it's an eye-opening exploration of American mass culture. Be prepared to have your perceptions challenged, your knowledge expanded, and your sense of curiosity ignited. Join us on this journey through the extraordinary and embrace what makes us all beautifully unique.
Ready to immerse yourself in the world of "Freakery: Cultural Spectacles of the Extraordinary Body"? Don't miss out on this captivating anthology that sheds light on a neglected aspect of American history. Experience the captivating narratives, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking insights that await you within these pages. Order your copy now and embark on a journey like no other. Click here to purchase.
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