Frances Larson
Severed: A History of Heads Lost and Heads Found
- ISBN 13:
- 9781783780563
- author:
- Frances Larson
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- Granta
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2015
- Pages:
- 336
- Dimensions:
- 12.9 x 2.1 x 19.8 cm
- Genre:
- Society, Politics & Philosophy, Social Sciences, Anthropology
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 7 working days
Description
The human head is a remarkable and complex entity. It houses our brain, senses, and expressive muscles, making it an integral part of who we are. Yet, its significance has also led to a dark history of fascination and repulsion. Human heads have been used as objects of art, scientific study, and even trophies, with various cultures and individuals contributing to this complex narrative. From the brutal massacres of colonialists seeking shrunken heads to the romantic portraits featuring memento mori, Frances Larson explores the bizarre and often gruesome history of severed heads. This story is deeply intertwined with our own, reflecting both the darker aspects of human nature and our enduring fascination with the head as a symbol of identity and mortality. Larson's exploration of this subject reveals a rich and confounding history that spans centuries, cultures, and disciplines. With its unique blend of art, science, and cultural commentary, "Severed: A History of Heads Lost and Heads Found" offers a thought-provoking examination of our relationship with the human head.