A History of Crossroads in Early Modern Culture

This book explores the literature and history of physical crossroads in the early modern period, discussing their magical and religious encounters, rituals of transformation, binding of undesirable spirits, siting of gallows, associations with music, and links to ancient cosmology. It unifies various discourses of early modern culture and subjectivity in terms of the experience and understanding of the crossroads, highlighting their significance as culturally vital sites where forces of human, demonic, and divine were felt to converge.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 312 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2023
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Tracing the evolution of concepts and practices associated with the physical crossroads in the early modern period, this groundbreaking work delves into the realm of literary geography, enriching our historical understanding of the significance of the crossroads in literary and cultural discourse. By unifying diverse discourses of early modern culture and subjectivity, it sheds light on the experiences and interpretations of the crossroads. Moreover, this book strategically locates issues surrounding the ideology and experience of the road within a singularly culturally significant place, namely the crossroads.

Within the pages of this book, readers embark on a captivating journey that explores the literature and history of the physical crossroads. It delves into the realm of magic and religion, recounting the mystical and sacred encounters that took place at these crossroads. From the rituals of transformation to the binding of undesirable spirits, the book sheds light on the multifaceted roles that these sites played in early modern society. Moreover, it explores the deep connections between crossroads and music, highlighting the role that music played in enhancing the spiritual and cultural significance of these places.

Furthermore, the book delves into the ancient cosmological connections of the crossroads, drawing upon historical and cultural evidence to shed light on the role that these sites played in shaping the worldviews of early modern individuals. Crossroads were believed to be gateways between different realms, where the boundaries between human, demonic, and divine forces were blurred. They were potent sites for rituals intended to influence lovers, harm enemies, and navigate the complexities of the human condition.

In conclusion, this book is a seminal contribution to the field of literary geography, offering a fresh perspective on the cultural significance of the physical crossroads in the early modern period. By unifying various discourses of early modern culture and subjectivity, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the experiences and interpretations of these sites. Moreover, by strategically locating issues surrounding the ideology and experience of the road within a singularly culturally significant place, it offers valuable insights into the complex tapestry of early modern society.

Weight: 484g
Dimension: 157 x 233 x 21 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474499835