Guenther, Genevieve. Magical imaginations : instrumental aesthetics in the English Renaissance

Folger bibliographic ID: 264991
Folger call number: PR531 .G83 2012
Folger holdings ID: 350632

Through analyses of texts ranging from sermons and theological treatises to medical tracts and legal documents, Genevieve Guenther sheds new light on magic as a cultural practice in early modern England. She demonstrates that magic was a highly pragmatic, even cynical endeavor infiltrating unexpected spheres - including Elizabethan taxation policy and Jacobean political philosophy. With this new understanding of early modern magic, and a fresh context for compelling readings of classic literary works, Magical Imaginations reveals the central importance of magic to English literary history."--pub. desc

General notes

Includes bibliographical references and index

Contents

Conjuration and The Defense of Poesy -- The Demonology of Spenserian Discipline -- Why Devils Came when Faustus Called Them -- The End of Magic: Instrumental Aesthetics in The Tempest -- Epilogue (Kant's Charm)

Extended title: Magical imaginations : instrumental aesthetics in the English Renaissance / Genevieve Juliette Guenther

English poetry English drama Magic in literature Aesthetics in literature

author: Guenther, Genevieve