More than entertainment, Burmese marionettes were used as a means of educating the audience in literature, history, religion, customs and current affairs.
--This text refers to an alternate
Paperback
edition.
Book Description
Editorial Reviews
Review
But no matter how beautifully carved the dolls are, as Ma Thanegi points out, "it was the master puppeteer who brought the High Drama to life. Their particular stories, skills and innovations added much to the allure of the marionette theatre." These were the people who were speakers of "both king and man" who ensured that this unique art form was "enforced by all classes of Burmese society, a voice for all, but a mouthpiece for none." This art, and its masters, has never before been so skilfully described. A selection of photographs by the author herself, and Burmese photographer Khin Maung Toon, increase the book's attraction. The text also has a subtle contemporary ring to it. The "illusion of life" in today's Burma remind of the old absolute monarchy. What people could not do in public, innocent wooden dolls could do without severe restrictions
This book is especially timely since vast numbers of Burmese puppets are being smuggled to Thailand, where they are sold along with ancient Buddha images, religious scriptures, and the rest of Burma's cultural heritage. Sadly, the marionette theatre is disappearing fast in modern Burma. Ma Thanegi's book is a tribute to this dying art form, and to the puppet masters who are struggling to keep it alive. For this and other reasons, it should be read by anyone who is interested in South Asian history and culture. -- Bertil Lintner, Far Eastern Economic Review, July 27,1995 --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.
Product Details
Would you like to update product info or give feedback on images?
|
More About the Author
Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.
Customer Reviews
|
There are no customer reviews yet.
|
|||
|
Video reviews
|
Tag this product(What's this?)Think of a tag as a keyword or label you consider is strongly related to this product.
Tags will help all customers organize and find favorite items. |
Sell a Digital Version of This Book in the Kindle Store
If you are a publisher or author and hold the digital rights to a book, you can sell a digital version of it in our Kindle Store.
Learn more
Customer Discussions
|
This product's forum
Active discussions in related forums
Search Customer Discussions
|
Related forums
|
