Magic Shadows: The Story of the Origin of Motion Pictures

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Quigley, Martin, 1917-2011

Contributor:

Curtis, Edward Peck, 1897-1987

Language:

English

Physical Description:

1 online resource : multiple file formats

Place of Publication:

Salt Lake City, UT : Project Gutenberg,

Summary:

"Magic Shadows: The Story of the Origin of Motion Pictures" by Martin Quigley is a historical account written in the late 20th century. This book chronicles the evolution of motion picture technology, tracing its development from ancient optical experiments to the modern cinematic experience. It examines the significant figures and innovations that contributed to the creation of moving images, invoking a deep appreciation for the formative processes behind the films that shaped popular culture. The opening of this work sets the stage for a profound exploration of the historical origins of motion pictures. It begins with a foreword that emphasizes the general public's limited understanding of the motion picture's history and highlights the lack of recognition for the many pioneers involved in its development. The introduction focuses on Athanasius Kircher, whose invention of the magic lantern in the 17th century became a catalyst for future motion picture technology. Quigley recounts Kircher's early demonstrations, which combined a blend of science and showmanship, engaging audiences with light and shadow before paving the way for the more complex innovations that would follow. The narrative invites readers to understand and appreciate the rich tapestry of discoveries and the integral historical journey leading to the films we watch today. (This is an automatically generated summary.)

Contents:

Foreword

Introduction

It started with "A"

Friar Bacon's magic

Da Vinci's camera

Porta, first screen showman

Kepler and the stars

Kircher's 100th art

Popularizing Kircher's projector

Musschenbroek and motion

Phantasmagoria

Dr. Paris' toy

Plateau creates motion pictures

The baron's projector

The Langenheims of Philadelphia

Marey and movement

Edison's peep-show

First steps

World premieres

Appendix I: Chronology

Appendix II: Bibliography.

Credits:

Tim Lindell, Charlie Howard, and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net (This book was produced from images made available by the HathiTrust Digital Library.)

Notes:

Reading ease score: 61.2 (8th & 9th grade). Neither easy nor difficult to read.

Release date is 2021-02-16