Alas Poor Ghost

by Gillian Bennett

Book Overview

Drawing on modern field research among elderly women in England and historical research in supernatural traditions, Gillian Bennett offers a clear and thought-provoking discussion of the vigorous... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0874212774
• ISBN13: 9780874212778
• Release Date: November 1999
• Publisher: Utah State University Press
• Length: 232 Pages
• Weight: 1.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.6" x 8.5"
• Grade Range: Postsecondary and higher

Customer Reviews

Fascinating, informative, original.

Belief in supernatural phenomena ranging from poltergeists to telepathy remains strong and pervasive in an otherwise rational, modern, secular, science oriented world. Especially common is belief in continuing contact with (or the continuing presence of) deceased family members. Gillian Bennet interviewed women in Manchester, England, asking them questions about ghosts and other aspects of the supernatural. "Alas, Poor Ghost!" lays out her rather impressive research methodology and techniques, as well as her findings, analysis. Of special interest is supplemental material assisted by Kate Bennett, a gerontological psychologist who presents and discusses new research with a group of women in Leicester, England. "Alas, Poor Ghost!" concludes with Bennett placing her work in historical context through a discussion of case studies in the history of supernatural belief. "Alas, Poor Ghost!" will prove fascinating, informative, original reading for students of folklore, occultism, metaphysics, cultural traditions and beliefs.