A FULL RELATION OF THE CONTENTS OF THE BLACK BOX. A cautionary warning against the dangers of political intrigue.

Black BOX

Published by London, 1680

About this Item

4to. 8 pp Modern cloth binding. ESTC R38901; Wing F2361. Everyone knows the term "black box" to describe any system or device whose internal workings are not visible or easily understood by the user. It supposedly originated in early 20th-century aviation as the 78ight recorder. But what about this tract from 1680 about the contents of the Black Box? A prisoner was led to believe he would be pardoned on the steps of the executioner, but instead, the black box was opened with a chilling command, "Upon sight hereof, let the prisoner be immediately executed." A darkly ironic twist, where the prisoner, who lived like a knave, "dy'd like a foolA Full Relation of the Contents of the Black Box," published in 1680, uses the metaphor of the "Black Box" to oIfer a satirical and cautionary warning against the dangers of political intrigue. The story serves as metaphor for the misguided or misinformed political actors of the time who, much like the prisoner, could be undone by their own expectations or manipulations. The "Black Box" itself, in the broader political context, symbolizes the rumoured and highly controversial marriage certificate that could legitimize James Scott, Duke of Monmouth, as the rightful heir to the throne. This rumor sparked significant unrest and tension during the final years of Charles II's reign, highlighting the precarious nature of political ambitions and the potentially disastrous consequences of relying on dubious or secretive claims.

Seller Inventory # BBOX2

Bibliographic Details

• Title: A FULL RELATION OF THE CONTENTS OF THE BLACK BOX. A cautionary warning against the dangers of political intrigue.
• Publisher: London
• Publication Date: 1680
• Binding: Soft cover
• Condition: Very Good