Dancing Plague

The Dancing Plague of 1518 is a historical event that occurred in Strasbourg, France, where hundreds of people were suddenly seized by the strange and unstoppable compulsion to dance. This event is recounted from the perspective of Mary, one of its witnesses, and explores her life as an oppressed and scapegoated woman. The story is difficult to interpret, as it was a psychological reaction to social injustice and a collective demonic possession. Gareth Brookes has devised a unique mixed-media style to tell the story, blending his trademark "pyrographic" technique with sumptuously colorful embroidery, which reflects the enduring fragility of our human condition.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2021
Publisher: SelfMadeHero

The Dancing Plague, a captivating tale that unfolded in Strasbourg in 1518, has been brought to life through the vivid storytelling of Mary, one of its witnesses. With a penchant for mystic visions from a young age, Mary's life was marked by betrayal and hardship. Despite facing oppression and being unfairly scapegoated, she emerged as a resilient and inspiring woman, displaying courage, strength, and a captivating beauty that transcended her circumstances. The story, which is as perplexing today as it was centuries ago, serves as a powerful reflection of the human condition. It poses questions about psychological reactions to social injustice and collective demonic possessions.

Gareth Brookes, the visionary artist behind this captivating tale, has crafted a unique mixed-media style to bring it to life. His signature "pyrographic" technique, combined with exquisitely colorful embroidery, creates a beautiful work of art that captures the enduring fragility of our human experience. From the phenomenon of "choreomania" to the challenges posed by the coronavirus, the story unfolds in a way that is both visually stunning and thought-provoking.

The Dancing Plague serves as a reminder of the resilience and strength of the human spirit, even in the face of adversity. It encourages us to look beyond the surface and explore the deeper meanings and complexities of our existence. Through the artistry of Gareth Brookes and the powerful narrative of Mary, this tale continues to resonate with audiences, reminding us of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the enduring power of art to connect and inspire.

Weight: 596g
Dimension: 173 x 240 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910593981