Conjuring Asia: Magic, Orientalism, and the Making of the Modern World
Cambridge University Press
Edition: Illustrated, 7/14/2016
EAN 9781107076594, ISBN10: 1107076595
Hardcover, 336 pages, 22.9 x 15.2 x 1.9 cm
Language: English
Originally published in English
The promise of magic has always commanded the human imagination, but the story of industrial modernity is usually seen as a process of disenchantment. Drawing on the writings and performances of the so-called 'Golden Age Magicians' from the turn of the twentieth century, Chris Goto-Jones unveils the ways in which European and North American encounters with (and representations of) Asia - the fabled Mystic East - worked to re-enchant experiences of the modern world. Beginning with a reconceptualization of the meaning of 'modern magic' itself - moving beyond conventional categories of 'real' and 'fake' magic - Goto-Jones' acclaimed book guides us on a magical mystery tour around India, China, and Japan, showing us levitations and decapitations, magic duels and bullet catches, goldfish bowls and paper butterflies. In the end, this mesmerizing book reveals Orientalism as a kind of magic in itself, casting a spell over Western culture that leaves it transformed, even today.
Introduction
magic in the world
Part I
1. Modern magic in history and theory
2. A theory of modern magic
3. Oriental(ist) magic
Part II
4. Indian magic and magic in India
5. Chinese magic and magic in China
6. Japanese magic and magic in Japan
Conclusion
magic in the world.