Spectralities in the Renaissance: Sixteenth and Seventeenth Centuries

Spectralities in the Renaissance examines the history of the idea of ghosts in early modern Europe, focusing on how they were rooted in cultural traditions and played a part in various aspects of life, including politics, law, and the cultural and emotional history of everyday life.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 May 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Spectralities in the Renaissance delves into the captivating history of the concept of ghosts in early modern Europe, shifting our perspective beyond mere religious interpretations. Instead, it uncovers their profound connection to cultural traditions, particularly during times of violence, when the boundaries between the living and the dead blurred. Callard's insightful exploration takes us to the captivating realm of ancien regime France, where he unravels the intricate role that ghosts and the supernatural played in shaping France's early modern past. From the halls of politics to the courts of law, from the realms of natural philosophy to the emotional tapestry of everyday life, this book offers a rich tapestry of insights. Through meticulous research and a keen eye for detail, Callard sheds light on the ways in which the supernatural influenced societal beliefs, legal systems, scientific inquiry, and the emotional experiences of ordinary individuals. By exploring the spectral realm, Spectralities in the Renaissance invites us to reimagine the complexities of early modern Europe and the enduring legacy of the supernatural in our collective consciousness.

Weight: 546g
Dimension: 240 x 162 x 19 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198849476