Magic in the Web of Art

Synopsis: The programme, presented by Joe Barber, considers the importance of magical experience in A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It looks at a gnostic mass performed by a group in New York City and compares the role of magic today with the role of magic in Shakespeare’s society. The ‘folk’ magic and May Day rituals of the play are studied before moving to a study of scholarly magic and the role of the magus. The way magical thinking influenced Shakespeare’s use of theatre space is also considered. Finally looks at how the magician’s love of symbols is evident in the work of the artist Jasper Johns.
Series: Open University A101
Language: English
Country: Great Britain
Medium: Television
Technical information: Colour / Sound
Transmission details: 12 Apr 1978
Duration: 22:04

Notes: The Open University’s library and archive facilities are available to students and staff of the OU only. Outside researchers wishing to gain access should contact the Librarian. A script is also available for reference.

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