A History of European Puppetry: From Its Origins to the End of the 19th Century

Rating:
Summary: An Important Puppetry Book
Review: This book brings to the English speaking world the extensive work of Professor Jurkowski that has heretofore only been available in Polish. Professor Jurkowski is justifiably known as the highest authority on European Puppetry and this book amply illustrates why. It is a well written and thorough scholarly work. However, it will appeal to many, other than scholars. Some will find of interest references to Roman Puppets and puppetry. Others will be facinated by ancient Greek drawings of mechanical puppets representing the Gods. There are complete histories of classic puppet characters such as Punch and Judy and Karagiosis. Further, Professor Jurkowski delves into areas not often included in books on the puppetry arts. For instance, he gives the history and development of the mechanical figurine, and the mideaval motions (a kind of 3D story book.) Its all here from Polish castle stages to the Italian Orlando Furioso marionettes. I would not often spend this much money for a book. This is one time that I am glad that I did.