An Entertainment for Angels (Icon Science): Electricity in the Enlightenment [Paperback] [Jun 01, 2017] Patricia Fara

Uncover the electrifying secrets of the 18th century with Patricia Fara's captivating book, "An Entertainment for Angels: Electricity in the Enlightenment," now available in a new paperback edition. Dive into a world where scientific discovery ignited the popular imagination, blurring the lines between entertainment and enlightenment. Patricia Fara, a renowned historian of science at the University of Cambridge, expertly guides you through the thrilling era when electricity emerged as a source of wonder and speculation. This isn't just a dry recounting of scientific advancements; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with the stories of the charismatic figures who championed this new science. Meet Benjamin Franklin, the American polymath whose kite experiments captured the world's attention, and Luigi Galvani, the Italian scientist whose experiments with frogs sparked a debate about the very nature of life. Fara illuminates how their public demonstrations weren't simply scientific experiments, but carefully orchestrated performances that captivated audiences and fueled the popular fascination with electricity. "An Entertainment for Angels" delves beyond the laboratory to explore the profound impact of electricity on 18th-century culture. Discover how it permeated art, literature, and philosophy, inspiring both awe and apprehension. Explore the era's fascination with automata and the electric eel, and how those fueled dreams of artificial life and other strange scientific concepts. The book shows how these experiments contributed to the understanding of nerves and laid some of the early conceptual ground work for things like computers. This new edition from Icon Books, published in 2022, offers a fresh perspective on a pivotal moment in scientific history. Fara's accessible prose makes complex ideas understandable, appealing to both seasoned science enthusiasts and curious newcomers. "An Entertainment for Angels" isn't just a book about electricity; it's a window into a world on the cusp of transformation, where science, entertainment, and culture collided to shape our modern world. If you want to learn about the history of science in a fun, yet detail rich way, this is the book for you. Whether you're fascinated by the history of science, the Enlightenment era, or simply seeking a captivating read, "An Entertainment for Angels" is a must-have addition to your bookshelf. Prepare to be enlightened and entertained!