Marvelous Possessions
About this book
Marvelous Possessions is a study of the ways in which Europeans of the late Middle Ages and the early modern period represented non-European peoples and took possession of their lands, in particular the New World. In a series of innovative readings of travel narratives, judicial documents, and official reports, Stephen Greenblatt shows that the experience of the marvelous, central to both art and philosophy, was cunningly yoked by Columbus and others to the service of colonial appropriation. He argues that the traditional symbolic actions and legal rituals through which European sovereignty w...30-Second Summary
In 'Marvelous Possessions,' Stephen Greenblatt explores how European perceptions of non-European cultures influenced colonial expansion during the late Middle Ages and early modern period. Through a critical examination of travel accounts, legal documents, and official narratives, the book reveals how the allure of the 'marvelous' was strategically utilized to justify and facilitate the appropriation of lands in the New World.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the relationship between European colonialism and perceptions of the 'marvelous.'
- Gain insights into how narratives shaped the justification for land appropriation.
- Explore the interplay between art, philosophy, and colonial expansion.
- Analyze various historical documents to uncover underlying themes of sovereignty and possession.
Who Should Read This Book
This book is ideal for readers interested in the history of colonialism, cultural studies, and Renaissance literature. Scholars and students of history, literary criticism, and anthropology will find valuable insights into the motivations behind European expansion and the representation of non-European peoples. Those curious about the complexities of cultural exchange and appropriation will also benefit from Greenblatt's analysis.
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