working papers #2: On lantern readings or “the speech expected of certain members of society whenever they open their mouths” by Nico de Klerk

The series of Working papers is meant to explore areas of interest to the research project Projecting knowledge—the magic lantern as a tool for mediated science communication in the Netherlands, 1880-1940. Documents and literature are reported and discussed, and ideas are elaborated; as well pointers to further materials for research may be suggested that fall outside the immediate remit of this project, most particularly undigitized business papers in foreign archives. The difference with other publications is that the Working papers do not have a shape or a length tailored to suit the conventions of scientific books or journals. Nonetheless, we think our findings, reflections or suggestions may be of interest to those working in the emergent field of lantern studies and connected topics.

This working paper discusses the topic of lantern readings, the printed brochures that were meant to support non-professional lantern lecturers in their performance. In line with the scope of our research project I will limit this paper to public, educational lectures.

Compared to photographic and lantern projection technologies, equipment or slides, to date studies of lantern culture have paid scant attention to lantern readings and their delivery, still less to the public illustrated lecture as an interactive event. This essay is an attempt to put some weight on the other side of the scales.

Dr. Nico de Klerk

This working paper can be read here.