Title
Credulity: A Cultural History of US Mesmerism (Class 200: New Studies in Religion),Used
Processing time: 1-3 days
US Orders Ships in: 3-5 days
International Orders Ships in: 8-12 days
Return Policy: 15-days return on defective items
Payment Option
From the 1830s to the Civil War, Americans could be found putting each other into trances for fun and profit in parlors, on stage, and in medical consulting rooms. They were performing mesmerism. Surprisingly central to literature and culture of the period, mesmerism embraced a variety of phenomena, including mind control, spirit travel, and clairvoyance. Although it had been debunked by Benjamin Franklin in late eighteenthcentury France, the practice nonetheless enjoyed a decadeslong resurgence in the United States. Emily Ogden here offers the first comprehensive account of those boom years.Credulity tells the fascinating story of mesmerisms spread from the plantations of the French Antilles to the textile factory cities of 1830s New England. As it proliferated along the Eastern seaboard, this occult movement attracted attention from Ralph Waldo Emersons circle and ignited the nineteenthcentury equivalent of flame wars in the major newspapers. But mesmerism was not simply the last gasp of magic in modern times. Far from being magicians themselves, mesmerists claimed to provide the first rational means of manipulating the credulous human tendencies that had underwritten past superstitions. Now, rather than propping up the powers of oracles and false gods, these tendencies served modern ends such as labor supervision, education, and mediated communication. Neither an atavistic throwback nor a radical alternative, mesmerism was part and parcel of the modern. Credulity offers us a new way of understanding the place of enchantment in secularizing America.
⚠️ WARNING (California Proposition 65):
This product may contain chemicals known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects, or other reproductive harm.
For more information, please visit www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.
- Q: What is the page count of the book? A: The book has two hundred seventy-two pages. It provides a comprehensive account of the history of mesmerism in the United States.
- Q: What are the dimensions of the book? A: The book measures six inches in length, zero point eight inches in width, and nine point zero two inches in height. These dimensions make it a convenient size for reading.
- Q: What binding type does this book have? A: This book is available in paperback binding. Paperback editions are lightweight and easy to handle.
- Q: Who is the author of this book? A: The author of the book is Professor Emily Ogden. She provides insightful analysis on the cultural history of mesmerism.
- Q: What genre does this book belong to? A: The book falls under the genre of psychology and counseling. It explores themes related to mesmerism and cultural history.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic study. It offers a thorough investigation of a significant cultural phenomenon in American history.
- Q: Can this book be used for leisure reading? A: Yes, this book can definitely be enjoyed for leisure reading. Its engaging narrative makes it accessible to general readers.
- Q: What topics are covered in the book? A: The book covers topics such as mind control, spirit travel, and the historical context of mesmerism in the United States. It offers a deep dive into an often-overlooked cultural movement.
- Q: Is this book appropriate for all ages? A: Yes, this book is appropriate for most ages. However, it may be more suitable for older teens and adults due to its complex themes.
- Q: How should I store this book to keep it in good condition? A: Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. This will help preserve its binding and pages.
- Q: What should I do if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for a return or replacement. Most sellers offer a satisfaction guarantee.
- Q: How do I handle and clean the book? A: Handle the book with clean hands to avoid stains. Dust the cover gently with a soft cloth if needed.
- Q: Can I gift this book to someone interested in history? A: Yes, this book makes a great gift for anyone interested in history or psychology. Its unique subject matter is sure to intrigue.
- Q: What type of illustrations does the book include? A: The book includes black and white illustrations. These visuals complement the text by providing historical context.
- Q: Is the book published by a reputable publisher? A: Yes, the book is published by the University of Chicago Press, known for its quality academic publications. This ensures a reliable and scholarly approach.