Gothic Effigy: A Guide to Dark Visibilities

Gothic effigy brings together for the first time the multifarious visual motifs and media associated with Gothic, some of which have never received serious study before. This guide is the most comprehensive work in its field, a study aid that makes links between a considerable array of Gothic visual works and artefacts, from the work of Salvator Rosa and the first illustrations of Gothic Blue books to the latest Gothic painters and graphic artists. Goth visual cultures are discussed from their inception in the early 1980s to the present day. Current popular areas such as the development of Gothic films are considered, as are the projections of their precursors, the monstrous and macabre images of magic lantern shows. The discussion also draws attention to dark creations such as Gothic dolls, music album covers, photography, costume and fashion, jewellery, posters, statuary and collage which, though popular, have often been marginalised and omitted from the mainstream of Gothic Studies. These are considered in relation to historical and literary contexts. New gaming media are covered, as are dance and theatre, as well as the rise of Gothic comic strips and graphic novels. Providing original insights for readers, most of the interviews with contemporary Gothic artists included are unique to this volume. The approach taken is pluralistic and scholarly, with the work of many influential critics of the Gothic brought to bear on the media and materials. This guide is a groundbreaking survey which serves as an invaluable reference and research book. In its wide range and closely detailed descriptions, it will be attractive for students, academics, collectors, fans of popular Gothic culture and general readers.