To Embody the Marvelous: The Making of Illusions in Early Modern Spain

To Embody the Marvelous is a groundbreaking exploration of puppetry and animation as powerful mediums for mastering the art of illusion.

This book delves into early modern notions of wonder in religious, artistic, and social contexts, revealing how animated performance objects were used to engage with civil society in Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries.

Through a detailed examination of historical and fictional artifacts, including jointed wooden figures of Christ, marionettes performing hagiographical dramas, and mechanical stage props, the book uncovers the ways in which these objects reenvisioned belief systems and challenged the boundaries of fiction in art and entertainment cultures.

With its interdisciplinary approach and rich detail, To Embody the Marvelous is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of performance, art, and culture.