Besieged by Witch Fever is a book that delves into the fascinating history of wallpaper. This seemingly mundane household item has a rich and storied past that few are aware of. The book focuses specifically on a specific type of wallpaper that gained popularity in the Victorian era, known as Arsenic Sulphide wallpaper. The name itself gives a clue to the danger hidden behind its beautiful and intricate designs. Arsenic Sulphide, as the name suggests, contains high levels of arsenic - a highly toxic element. The book explores how this toxic substance became an essential part of wallpaper production during the 19th century.
An investigative series exploring bizarre crimes.
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The book explores how this toxic substance became an essential part of wallpaper production during the 19th century. The author, Lucinda Hawksley, takes readers on a journey through time, revealing the various stages in the production of Arsenic Sulphide wallpaper. It highlights how arsenic was used to achieve vibrant colors and intricate patterns, becoming a mark of luxury and high status.
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The wallpaper industry became a lucrative business, but little did people know about the deadly effects lurking within their homes. As the book progresses, Hawksley also delves into the societal impact of Arsenic Sulphide wallpaper. She discusses the health hazards it posed, including symptoms such as rashes, respiratory problems, and even death. One particularly horrifying aspect of the wallpaper's toxicity was how it could release arsenic gas when damp, jeopardizing the health of anyone living in a room adorned with the wallpaper. Amidst the aesthetic appeal and societal fascination, it soon became apparent that danger lurked behind the beautiful patterns. The book traces the rise of public awareness regarding the toxic effects of Arsenic Sulphide wallpaper. It discusses how the media and medical profession began to highlight its dangers, leading to the eventual decline and discontinuation of its production. Besieged by Witch Fever sheds light on a forgotten chapter of history, providing a riveting account of a household item that was once coveted but turned out to be a silent killer. It serves as a cautionary tale, reminding us of the importance of being mindful of the materials we bring into our homes. So next time you admire the patterns adorning your walls, spare a thought for the hidden dangers that may lie beneath..
Reviews for "Witch Fever and the Demonization of Women"
1. John - 1 star
I found "Besieged by Witch Fever" to be a complete disappointment. The book lacked depth and failed to captivate me. The author's attempt to explore the history of wallpaper through the lens of witchcraft fell flat. The writing style was lackluster, and the information presented felt disjointed and disorganized. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone interested in either witchcraft or the history of wallpaper.
2. Emma - 2 stars
I had high hopes for "Besieged by Witch Fever", but unfortunately, it didn't live up to my expectations. While the concept of exploring the historical connection between witchcraft and wallpaper was intriguing, the execution fell flat. The book lacked a cohesive structure, making it difficult to follow the author's train of thought. Additionally, the writing style was overly academic, which made it challenging to engage with the material. Overall, I found the book to be a missed opportunity for a fascinating exploration of an unusual topic.
3. Ryan - 2.5 stars
"Besieged by Witch Fever" was a mediocre read for me. The premise was intriguing, but the execution left much to be desired. The book lacked a clear direction and failed to delve deep enough into the subject matter. While there were some interesting tidbits about the history of wallpaper, the connection to witchcraft felt forced and superficial. The writing style was dry and uninspiring, making it difficult to stay engaged throughout. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book unless you have a strong interest in both witchcraft and the history of wallpaper.