The Rise Of The Indian Rope Trick
Summary
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The Rise Of The Indian Rope Trick by Peter Lamont
We assume that the Indian rope trick is a piece of ancient Hindu magic. But think again: it is actually the product of a hoax which appeared in the Chicago Tribune in 1890. This wonderfully researched, playfully written book takes us on a journey through Victorian society where we discover the interest in magic of Charles Dickens; Alfred Russell Wallace; Edward, Prince of Wales; Lord Northbrook and Charles Darwin. We learn how in an age of reason the British came to love all things Oriental and how the legend of the rope trick came to be perpetuated throughout the 20th century as fanatical public figures and aristocrats went to India in search of it and returned claiming to have seen it being performed. This is a charming history book filled with colourful characters, known and unknown, all of whom pursued an obsession. Some were respected members of society, some were incredibly eccentric and utterly deluded. It is set against the background of Victorian society and shows how the writing of history itself can perpetuate myths and legends.
ADVANCE QUOTE FROM SIMON SINGH: 'A fascinating, quirky and authoritative investigation into the world's greatest mystery' FROM CHARLES ALLEN: 'The Rise of the Indian Rope Trick is enormously good fun -- a fascinating piece of historical detective work' FROM DERREN BROWN: 'Quirky and expertly written' Lamont has finally managed to unravel the bizarre truth behind the world's tallest taleA wonderful example of how the imagination can create a miraculous illusion - quirky and expertly written."
Dr Peter Lamont is a Research Fellow at the University of Edinburgh, working on the history, theory and performance of magic. He is an award-winning magician and a former President of the Edinburgh Magic Circle. He has performed and lectured in several countries across the world. This is his first book for a popular readership.
| SKU | Unavailable |
| ISBN 13 | 9780316724302 |
| ISBN 10 | 0316724300 |
| Title | The Rise Of The Indian Rope Trick |
| Author | Peter Lamont |
| Condition | Unavailable |
| Binding Type | Hardback |
| Publisher | Little, Brown & Company |
| Year published | 2004-01-01 |
| Number of pages | 224 |
| Cover note | Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary. |
| Note | Unavailable |