The true history of the ghost : and all about metempsychosis by John Henry Pepper
"The True History of the Ghost: And All About Metempsychosis" by John Henry Pepper is a fascinating exploration of early theatrical illusions and optical effects, written in the late 19th century. This work delves into the mechanics behind the famous "Ghost" illusion that captivated audiences during its time, particularly focusing on the advancements made by Professor Pepper in presenting this spectacle. The narrative intertwines elements of scientific explanation and autobiographical account, primarily
centered around Pepper's experiences as he introduces and innovates the ghost illusion in theatrical settings. At the start of the narrative, the author recounts the inception of the Ghost illusion following the closure of the Great Exhibition in 1862. Initially sparked by Henry Dircks's vague proposal, it was Professor Pepper who realized its potential through innovative adaptations to improve its presentation. The opening section sets the stage for a blend of scientific discourse, patent struggles, and anecdotal tales from the world of Victorian theatre, illustrating Pepper's journey from a struggling inventor to one whose creation garnered immense popularity and financial success. The narrative captures the excitement of the time and provides insight into the public's fascination with ghosts and optical phenomena, making it a reflective piece on the interplay between science, art, and public entertainment during the 19th century. (This is an automatically generated summary.)
The true history of the ghost : and all about metempsychosis
Alternate Title
The true history of Pepper's ghost
Original Publication
London: Cassell & Company, 1890.
Note
Reading ease score: 75.6 (7th grade). Fairly easy to read.
Credits
Peter Becker and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This file was produced from images generously made available by The Internet Archive)
