{"product_id":"the-global-fool-a-history-of-the-clown-9798288543890","title":"The Global Fool: A History of the Clown","description":"\u003cb\u003eThe Global Fool: A History of the Clown\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhy do clowns both delight and disturb? Why have fools endured across time, culture, and performance?\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eThe Global Fool: A History of the Clown\u003c\/i\u003e is a sweeping, richly illustrated exploration of one of humanity's most enduring figures. From the sacred tricksters of ancient rituals to the stylized elegance of the Commedia dell'arte, from the big-top antics of circus icons to the haunting power of modern horror clowns-this scholarly yet engaging book uncovers the deep cultural, spiritual, and psychological roots of the fool.\u003cbr\u003eAcross centuries and continents, the clown has challenged kings, mocked tradition, and held a mirror to society's fears and absurdities. Blending historical research, visual culture, and theatrical insight, this book explores: \u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMedieval jesters and royal fools\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe legacy of Pierrot, Harlequin, and Grimaldi\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTrickster gods and sacred clowns in Native American and global traditions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe transformation of the clown on film-from silent slapstick to modern horror\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePhilosophical clowns in Lecoq, Gaulier, and beyond\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cb\u003eIllustrated in vintage engraving style and framed by thoughtful design\u003c\/b\u003e, \u003ci\u003eThe Global Fool\u003c\/i\u003e is a must-have for theater lovers, historians, performers, and anyone intrigued by the archetype that wears the mask and tells the truth.\u003cbr\u003e\u003ci\u003eFunny. Frightening. Unforgettable. The fool has never been more relevant.\u003c\/i\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Independently Published","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51690561405202,"sku":"9798288543890","price":10.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0831\/4771\/8930\/files\/img_e456e8c5-256b-4ae1-ae27-ea5fc6a88f86.jpg?v=1761739982","url":"https:\/\/surprise-castle.myshopify.com\/products\/the-global-fool-a-history-of-the-clown-9798288543890","provider":"Surprise Castle","version":"1.0","type":"link"}