Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor

The term "mantle" has inspired philosophers, geographers, and theologians and shaped artists and mapmakers' visual vocabularies for thousands of years. "The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor" is an intellectual history of the term and its metaphorical representation in art and literature, geography, and cartography, exploring shifting perceptions and representations of global space and the nature of geography.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 416 pages
\n Publication date: 21 December 2020
\n Publisher: The University of Chicago Press
\n

The term "mantle" has captivated the minds of philosophers, geographers, and theologians for countless centuries, shaping their visual vocabularies and artistic expressions. According to Veronica della Dora, the mantle stands as the epitome of metaphor, as it traverses the boundaries between the visible and the unseen, acting as a threshold and a point of tension. This captivating book, "The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor," delves into the intellectual history of the term mantle and its metaphorical representation across art, literature, geography, and cartography. With an abundance of illustrations, it offers a comprehensive exploration of the shifting perceptions and representations of global space and the essence of geography itself throughout different eras.

The concept of the mantle has been deeply intertwined with the study of Earth's geology and geography. In geological terms, the mantle refers to the thick layer of the Earth's interior that lies between the crust and the core. It is composed primarily of hot, dense rock, which is responsible for the Earth's shape, temperature, and magnetic field. Geologists have studied the mantle extensively to understand the processes that shape the Earth's surface, such as plate tectonics, volcanic activity, and the formation of mineral deposits.

In addition to its geological significance, the mantle has also played a role in shaping human understanding of the world. The metaphorical concept of the mantle has been used to describe a range of phenomena, from the spiritual realm to the physical world. For example, in religious traditions, the mantle is often associated with the divine or the sacred, representing the unseen forces that govern the universe. In literature and art, the mantle has been used to symbolize the depths of the human psyche, the unconscious, and the uncharted territories of the mind.

The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor is a groundbreaking work that explores the multifaceted nature of the mantle as a metaphor. Through a rich tapestry of historical, literary, and artistic examples, the book demonstrates how the mantle has been used to convey a wide range of meanings and ideas. It also sheds light on the ways in which these meanings have evolved and changed over time, reflecting the changing perspectives and understandings of global space and geography.

One of the key themes of the book is the relationship between the mantle and the concept of the "other." The mantle has been used to represent the unknown, the foreign, and the unfamiliar, often in contrast to the familiar terrain of the Earth's surface. This metaphorical representation has played a crucial role in shaping human perceptions of the world and has contributed to the construction of cultural boundaries and identities.

Another important aspect of the book is its exploration of the ways in which the mantle has been used to represent the feminine. Throughout history, the mantle has often been associated with the feminine, symbolizing the nurturing, protective, and regenerative qualities that are often associated with women. This association has been used to challenge traditional gender roles and to promote gender equality and empowerment.

The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the intersection of geography, literature, and art. It offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of the mantle as a metaphor, providing a rich understanding of its historical, cultural, and philosophical significance.

In conclusion, the term "mantle" has inspired philosophers, geographers, and theologians for thousands of years, shaping their visual vocabularies and artistic expressions. This captivating book, "The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor," delves into the intellectual history of the term mantle and its metaphorical representation across art, literature, geography, and cartography. Through a rich tapestry of historical, literary, and artistic examples, it demonstrates how the mantle has been used to convey a wide range of meanings and ideas, from the spiritual realm to the physical world. The book also sheds light on the ways in which these meanings have evolved and changed over time, reflecting the changing perspectives and understandings of global space and geography. As a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in the intersection of geography, literature, and art, "The Mantle of the Earth: Genealogies of a Geographical Metaphor" offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the study of the mantle as a metaphor.

\n Weight: 686g\n
Dimension: 162 x 239 x 32 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780226741291\n \n