Scott Cutler Shershow explores the historical relationship between puppet theater and the human stage from the Renaissance to the present. Focusing on the ways in which various modes of bourgeois discourse have used the puppet as metaphor, paradigm of theatrical performance, or symbol of subordination, he maintains that 'elite' and 'popular' forms of culture are inextricably linked.

In spite of the use of the word "bourgeois", this book does contain some interesting and informative material. It's recommended for those folks who intend to pursue puppetry as a "serious" art form at some point in the future. Academic, yes; dry, not particularly; thought-provoking, definitely.

And a bargain at 50% of the publisher's price!