Freaks: Myths and Images of the Secret Self - Softcover

Fiedler, Leslie A.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 014005426X ISBN 13: 9780140054262

Publisher: Penguin, 1981

Synopsis

From two-headed men and dwarfs to Siamese twins, the phenomenon of the freak has fascinated people for centuries. In this classic study of the very nature of that fascination, the renowned literary and cultural critic Fiedler offers an in-depth examination of man's views of the freak from classical times to present. 150 photos and line drawings.

About this title

From Library Journal

"Witty, erudite, outrageously imaginative, Freaks is a sober historical survey of social responses to physical abnormality," said LJ 's reviewer of this 1978 title. Fiedler traces the history of the freak from ancient art and folklore to more modern times. Though "its morbidity may shock, its lively intelligence cannot fail to stimulate any serious reader" ( LJ 3/15/78).
Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Publishers Weekly

A fascinating, sensitive exploration of freakishness and what it means in our waking and subconscious lives--in literature, popular culture, myth, history and as symbol in the psyche. Illustrations.
Copyright 1993 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Edition details

• Publisher: Penguin
• Publication date: 1981
• ISBN 10: 014005426X
• ISBN 13: 9780140054262
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 368