Harry Houdini

A Magician Among the Spirits (eBook, ePUB)

• Format: ePub

Produktbeschreibung

In "A Magician Among the Spirits," Harry Houdini takes readers on a riveting journey into the realm of spiritualism, a phenomenon that captivated early 20th-century society. This work is an intricate blend of memoir, expose, and critique, in which Houdini shares his encounters with self-proclaimed mediums and spiritualists. Employing a straightforward yet compelling literary style, he dissects the methods used by these practitioners to deceive the public, revealing the performative nature of spiritualistic acts. Through vivid anecdotes and thoughtful analysis, Houdini not only showcases his deep skepticism but also his quest for truth in a world that often confuses illusion with reality. Harry Houdini, known for his iconic escape artistry and mastery of illusion, had a personal stake in debunking spiritualism, having lost his beloved mother and desperately wanting to connect with her in the afterlife. His experiences as a performer gave him unique insights into the mechanics of deception, propelling him to investigate the fraudulent practices that exploited grieving individuals. Houdini's deep-rooted commitment to the truth underscores every page of this work, making it not just a critique but also a passionate commentary on belief and skepticism. For those intrigued by the intersection of magic, mystery, and metaphysics, "A Magician Among the Spirits" serves as a timely reminder of the importance of critical thinking. Houdini's sharp wit and candid observations provide a compelling lens through which to understand the allure of the supernatural. This book is essential reading for scholars of magic, spiritualism, and the cultural context of the early 20th century.

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Produktdetails

• Verlag: Copycat
• Erscheinungstermin: 16. Juni 2022
• Englisch
• ISBN-13: 9788028203788
• Artikelnr.: 64378529

Autorenporträt

Harry Houdini, born Erik Weisz in Budapest, Hungary on March 24, 1874, was a multifaceted persona renowned for his escapology, magic, and stunts that captivated audiences worldwide. His journey took him from poverty to become one of the most celebrated magicians of his time, often billed as 'The Handcuff King.' Houdini's career transcended the stage as he ventured into film and aviation, showcasing a relentless pursuit of greatness and an appetite for adventure. After the death of his mother, to whom he was deeply attached, Houdini's focus shifted towards spiritualism, which was burgeoning in the early 20th century. His skepticism of mediums and their claims prompted him to author 'A Magician Among the Spirits' (1924), a book that exposed the tricks used by fraudulent spiritualists. This text stands as a testament to Houdini's investigative spirit and his commitment to truth, reflecting his literary contribution to the critical discourse on spiritualism. In the realm of literature, Houdini differed from the typical escapist narrative of his performances; he channeled his literary voice into advocacy for rationalism and scientific inquiry. Houdini's impact extends beyond the stage and page, leaving behind a legacy of skepticism and the relentless pursuit of the impossible, sealing his status in the annals of entertainment and critical thought.

Inhaltsangabe

Introduction
Preface
1. The founders of modern spiritualism
2. The Davenport brothers
3. Daniel Dunglas Home
4. Palladino
5. Ann O'Delia Diss Debar
6. Dr. Slade and his spirit slates
7. Slate writing and other methods
8. Spirit photography
9. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle
10. Why ectoplasm?
11. By-products of spiritualism
12. Investigations - wise and otherwise
13. How mediums obtain information
14. What you must believe to be a spiritualist
15. Magicians as detectors as fraud
16. Conclusion
Appendix
Index.