Book Description
Art Theory: An Historical Introduction is a unique survey of Western thought about art from ancient times to the present. This lucid and lively narrative, geared to the needs of the general reader and beginning student, consists of six chapters covering the major periods of Western art history: Antiquity and the Middle Ages, the early modern period (Renaissance and Baroque), the Enlightenment, the nineteenth century, early twentieth-century modernism, and postmodernism.Wide-ranging and exceptionally balanced in its analyses, the volume relates theory to the practice as well as to the intellectual- and cultural-historical currents of each period. In doing so, it thus demonstrates the value of an historical approach to theoretical issues, and has the particular merit of showing how the modern conception of art as a critical practice develops out of older ideas. Extensively illustrated throughout, Art Theory: An Historical Introduction also includes a full bibliography, providing a useful and up-to-date guide to the primary sources and secondary literature.
Customer Reviews:
Completely accessible to non-specialist general readers.......2004-06-06
Accessibly written by Robert Williams (Associate Professor of Art History at the University of California), Art Theory: An Historical Introduction is an impressive work of very sound scholarship offering the reader a straightforward introduction, informative discussion, and insightful evaluation of Western thought concerning art ranging from the beginning of history, down to the modern day. An intellectual analysis which is completely accessible to non-specialist general readers but treating its subject with the depth worty of a serious student, Art Theory presents its focus upon the periods of "Antiquity and the Middle Ages", "The Early Modern Period", "The Enlightenment", "The Nineteenth Century", "The Early Twentieth Century", and "Postmodernism". A relatively small amount of black-and-white and a few color illustrations add a special visual touch to the serious and evolving ideas concerning art and its role in society throughout the centures. A most welcome contribution to academic library Art History reference shelves and reading lists.
Book Description
This accessible guide and introduction to critical applied linguistics provides a clear overview, highlighting problems, debates, and competing views in language education, literacy, discourse analysis, language in the workplace, translation and other language-related domains. Covering both critical theory and domains of practice, the book is organized around five themes: the politics of knowledge, the politics of language, the politics of texts, the politics of pedagogy, and the politics of difference. It is an important text for anyone involved in applied linguistics, TESOL, language education, or other language-related fields.
Customer Reviews:
Pennycook's book is challenging but full of gems.......2006-07-20
I can understand the previous reviewer's frustration with deconstructionism, but he shouldn't take it out on this useful book. I've found it an invaluable addition to my library, and I've cited it frequently in essays. I think this book has to be approached with considerable background in post-structuralist thought, and then it's a gem. I highly recommend it for its stimulating ideas and critical points of view. It's not necessary to agree with everything written in it in order to find its value.
who saves us from deconstruction?.......2001-07-12
While his previous work revealed many interesting facts about ELT, Pennycook's post-modern ideology leads to disaster in "Critical Applied Linguistics". Indeed, the book's structure is so postmodern that there is hardly any frame left for reader to cling to. The only overarching structure is Pennycook's construction of the four schools of applied linguistics and this classification is extremely questionable. Often one scholar is taken as representing a whole school. In the case of Widdowson, his argument is misrepresented to suit the construction of "liberal ostricism".
But the basic fallacy of the book is Pennycook's attitude towards research.Pennycook argues that, as objectivity is not possible, there is no need to try to be objective. While it is certainly true that notions such as "objectivity" and "rationalism" are often biased, the answer is not to discharge these notions but to use them while being aware of their problematic nature.
Book Description
How and why are languages constantly changing? Historical lingustics seeks to find out by going beyond the history of individual languages to discover the general principles which underlie language change. But our evidence is severely limited. Most of the world's languages are still unwritten, and even in areas with long written traditions, such as Europe and the Near East, documentary evidence stretches only a little way back along the path of the historical development of languages. How, then, can we uncover our long linguistic prehistory, and what can it tell us about language change? This new textbook is an accessible general guide for students with an elementary knowledge of linguistics to the methods and theoretical bases of linguistic reconstruction, and of newer, less well established principles such as the application of linguistic universals and language typology, and quantitative techniques. Finally he reviews the principles for establishing language relationships and for uncovering information about the homelands and cultures of the prehistoric speakers of reconstructed languages.
Book Description
This classroom-tested volume aspires to be a brief but technically and factually accurate exposition of linguistic description and history. Whether studied as prime subject or as background information, it should help students understand the assumptions and reasoning that underlie the contents of their handbooks and etymological dictionaries. This book should be a useful guide for anyone unfamiliar with (historical) linguistics who is studying the history of a language, and also for those who are enrolled in courses devoted to reading texts in old languages. Contents: Introduction; Changes in Pronunciation; Sound Laws; Analogy; Semantic Change; Reconstruction; External Aspects of Language; The Interpretation of Written Records; Appendix: Phonetics - the mechanisms of speech and the classifications of speech sounds; Glossary; Glossary of Terms in German; Bibliography; Index.
Customer Reviews:
A very gentle and friendly introduction to historical linguistics.......2005-12-09
Andrew L. Sihler's NEW COMPARATIVE GRAMMAR OF GREEK AND LATIN (Oxford University Press, 1995), an update of Carl Buck's seminal work of decades past, is one of the most useful resources currently available for the student of comparative Indo-European linguistics. Yet, that update is missing part of Buck's original work, an introduction to the principles of historical linguistics for neophytes. Finally, with this separately published volume LANGUAGE HISTORY: An Introduction we have Sihler's modern take on the basics of the field.
LANGUAGE HISTORY is one of the friendliest textbooks I've ever seen. Sihler begins with the various types of phonological change, such as assimilation, loss of segments, metathesis, etc. which in turn provide the basis for sound laws (chapter two). Analogy and semantic changes get a chapter each. With all this down, the student is finally ready for the process of proto-language reconstruction, which is done by comparing two languages of Sihler's invention. The final two chapters deal with external aspects of language change (dialectal issues, languages in contact, etc.) and written records. There's an appendix with various references materials on phonetics, such as charts, and a glossary of terms used in the text.
Most examples in the text are taken from Indo-European languages: Latin, Anglo-Saxon or other Germanic tongues, Greek, Sanskrit, etc., which makes sense as the book is related to the NEW COMPARATIVE GRAMMAR. However, Sihler does work in examples from other language families, such as the Uralic languages, or American Indian languages.
I have few things to complain about with this fine volume. For one, the book is priced highly enough and published so obscurely that it won't reach all the students it should. I also felt that the addition of a few exercises could make this a true textbook that would be easy to teach from. Finally, I didn't care much for Sihler's decision to use an artificial language in the chapter on reconstruction; surely an actual language family could be chosen.
Still, if you are a student of Greek and Latin, for example, who has Sihler's NEW COMPARATIVE GRAMMAR but aren't clued up enough about historical linguistics to use it yet, this is a fine way to get acquainted with the field.
Excellent, comprehensive overview of Language History.......2001-10-04
Sihler's work gives a thorough overview of the field of Language History. The book can either be read front-to-back to obtain an overall understanding of the subject or a particular topic can easily be found using the subject index near the back of the book. The bibliography and the references at the end of each section "Suggestions for Further Reading" are helpful. The section on Reconstruction is particularly useful, since the idea of Language Reconstruction is often misunderstood. This section includes descriptions for both "Comparative Reconstruction" and "Internal or Historical Reconstruction".
If the reader is not totally familiar with linguistics terminology, there is a comprehensive appendix for "Phonetics" and an excellent, terse glossary. Most of the examples come from Indo-European languages (Sihler's specialty), but other languages are represented as well.
Average customer rating:
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Introduction to the 'Laryngeal Theory' (Serie B--Skrifter)
Fredrik Otto Lindeman
Manufacturer: A Scandinavian University Press Publication
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover
 Linguistics
| Words & Language
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
Phonetics & Phonics
| Words & Language
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Foreign Languages
| Reference
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 8200184595 |
Book Description
According to the "Laryngeal Theory," Indo-European language--the putative ancestor of Celtic, Germanic, Balto-Slavic, Greek, Armenian, Indo-Iranian, and many other languages--possessed certain consonants called "laryngeals." Although one or two of these consonants live on in Anatolian
Indo-European languages, "laryngeals" survive only as vestiges in the non-Anatolian Indo-European language family. This manual guides readers through the complexities of the "Laryngeal Theory," offering a clear and consistent introduction to an important aspect of Indo-European language studies.
Casting new light on the phonologic system of Early Indo-European, the book will be welcomed by specialists as well as scholars and students of general linguistic theory.
Customer Reviews:
The best introduction..........2000-06-12
to the "occult qualities" of modern Indo-European phonology. The H like sounds postulated by Ferdinand Saussure and discovered when Hittite was deciphered provoked a "foundation crisis" in IE linguistics comparable to the Pythagorean discovery of irrationals or the debates over infinitesimals in mathematics. Lindeman covers the history and linguistics of this topic in a highly commendable fashion.
Average customer rating:
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Consolidation of COSHH in Potteries (Legal)
Health & Safety Executive
Manufacturer: Health and Safety Executive (HSE)
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Instructional & How-To
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
Pottery & Ceramics
| Crafts & Hobbies
| Home & Garden
| Subjects
| Books
Social Services & Welfare
| Poverty
| Current Events
| Nonfiction
| Subjects
| Books
Manufacturing
| Industrial, Manufacturing & Operational Systems
| Engineering
| Professional & Technical
| Subjects
| Books
Safety & Health
| Technology
| Science
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0717608492 |
Book Description
Stephanie Pearl-McPhee, the best-selling author of At Knit’s End: Meditations for Women Who Knit Too Much and celebrated blogger and humorist of the knitting world, is back! Funnier than ever, Pearl-McPhee continues her running dialogue with her knitting compatriots — cheering them on to ever-greater heights in the climb to make knitting universally recognized as THE peak life experience.
Both a celebration of knitting and a sourcebook for practical information, this book is a collection of useful advice and emotional support for the knitter. Pearl-McPhee examines essential truisms of knitting, side by side with tongue in-cheek warnings, realities, and fantasies about the act of knitting and the people who do it.
In chapters on everything from yarn needles, gauge, and knitting bag essentials to hats, socks, shawls, and sweaters, Pearl-McPhee unravels the mysteries of what it is that makes knitting click, from the inside out. She dares to question longstanding rules and uncover the true essence of what makes a hat a hat, a sock a sock, and so on. Insights into why certain techniques work encourage knitters to take control and knit in the way that works best for them. As she says, “There are no knitting police.”
The result is an illuminating, liberating (and hilarious!) look at knitting that will comfort the experienced knitter, surprise the mainstream one, and entice the beginner.
Customer Reviews:
Stephanie Pearl McPhee's Knitting Rules.......2007-09-21
I love this book and I have learned several things. I enjoy reading Stephanie Pearl McPhee's book and love her "low" key views.
My Husband Loved It!.......2007-09-12
While I was meandering through the local yarn shop checking out the yarn, my husband found himself in the book section. He started reading this book and eventually bought it for me. It's great (and so is he)! I thought I was the only one with a stash. Her section on gauge is priceless --- and true!
Knitting.......2007-07-29
I love this book. Each time I feel as if I'm about to go 'round the bend in knitting or buying knitting supplies, or hating to swatch, or hating a particular project, I read sections of the book that apply, and I'm back to feeling completely normal. It reminds the knitter that we knit because we enjoy it, so we need to stop treating it like a bad job when we get frustrated. Or just stop knitting for awhile!
Must have for any knitter.......2007-07-25
BUY THIS BOOK! It's awesome! I learned so much from reading it and it was entertaining bathtub reading to boot.
Delightful!.......2007-07-23
While not exactly a 'how-to', this funny and light-hearted advice is well-taken. I've just found Stephanie's blog and the more I read of her, the more I want to knit!
Book Description
When it was first published in 1993, Secrets of Screen Acting broke new ground in explaining how acting for the camera is different from acting on stage. Reaction time is altered, physical timing and placement are reconceived, and the proportions of the film frame itself become the measure of all things. In this updated edition, Patrick Tucker explains how digital video introduces yet another secret (and solution): the proportions of the digital frame are different from that of traditional film stock, so that the director must conceptualize each image in terms of this new rectangle. Actors now fit into the frame in a slightly different way. Based on a revolutionary non-Method approach to acting, Secrets of Screen Acting shows what actually works: how an actor, an announcer--anyone working in front of the cameras--gives excellent performances on screen.
In this new edition, Patrick Tucker retains the engaging style and useful structure of the first edition while addressing significant changes in current technology, ensuring that this volume will remain an indispensable resource for contemporary students of screen acting.
Updated for a new decade of screen performance possibilities, Secrets of Screen Acting is a magician's box of acting tricks for today's performer. thought, there still exists no single method for screen work. In this book, Patrick Tucker makes the distinction between acting for the stage and for the screen. He explains that the actor, instead of starting with what is real and trying to portray that on screen, should work with the realities of the shoot itself, and then work out how to make it all appear realistic.
Tucker has created and developed several screen acting of a courses, and this book is an extension and explanation of a lifetime of work in the field. Containing over 50 acting exercises, this book leads the reader step-by-step through the elements of effective screen acting.
Refreshing in its informal approach and full of instructive anecdotes,
Secrets of Screen Acting will be an invaluable guide for those who wish to master the art of acting on-screen.
Customer Reviews:
One incredible gem of knowledge after another!.......1998-09-11
During my first read through my jaw kept dropping as I came to understand how little I know about screen acting, even at my low level of experience.
This book did more to open my eyes to the virtually hidden peculiarities and demands of acting for the screen than anything I've ever read. The pages of review sheets at the back are worth the price of the book.
The style is readable and the author speaks with the authority of experience. I'm sure that this will turn out to be the best investment I've made in my fledgling career as a film actor. I'm going to give this book to my closest actor-friends. I can't think of a better way to show how much I value them.
Excellent; detailed techniques on screen acting.......1997-02-19
Includes numerous detailed techniques for film acting, such as adjusting your performance for various camera distances (master shot vs. close-up, etc.
Book Description
Agents representing actors across a wide spectrum of show business opportunities give candid career advice in this one-of-a-kind guide.
Based on interviews with sixty industry professionals, this book takes you behind the scenes to show how performers' representatives do their work day to day: how they help actors in the business of finding employment, and how they explore and define opportunities in specialized fields for ethnic, teen, juvenile, senior, and other categories of performers.
Some agents focus on one niche of the market-jobs in commercials or soap operas-some specialize in modeling, and still others cover a broad range of stage and film work. The author profiles people working in various-sized agencies in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Boston, Denver, Houston, Miami, Seattle, and other cities. Also discussed is using the Internet to find leads.
Customer Reviews:
Incite to the Other Side.......2000-10-12
Hurtes does a great job collaborating professional directors' opinions in order to portray the "other side" of the story- the people who choose who makes it and who doesn't. I want to be an actress, and this book helped me discover what to truly look out for when auditioning for a role. The book contains great stuff for any artist, be you an actor, model, dancer, etc. I would recommend this to any hopeful artist who needs a little incite!
Average customer rating:
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Songs of Paul Simon for Easy Piano (Paul Simon/Simon & Garfunkel)
Paul Simon
Manufacturer: Paul Simon
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
Piano
| Instruments & Performers
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Songbooks
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
General
| Music
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 0825633060
Release Date: 1988-12-31 |
Book Description
A collection of 24 great Paul Simon songs, arranged for easy piano with lyrics and chord symbols. Includes The Boxer, El Condor Pasa, and You Can Call Me Al.
Book Description
Designed to help teachers and group leaders create dynamic and supportive play environments, this book features completely different games than the first one. These improvisational, noncompetitive games encourage involvement and cooperation — the participants gain as much as they contribute. By expressing themselves physically and emotionally and by exploring a range of possibilities, players gain self-confidence and a greater awareness of the feelings and experiences of others. 39 black-and-white illustrations are included.
Average customer rating:
- Beam Me Up, Scotty!!
- A Tribute to James Doohan Book
- Not recommended
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A Tribute to James Doohan "Scotty": A Reference
Ruby Moon-Houldson
Manufacturer: AuthorHouse
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
General
| Television
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Guides & Reviews
| Television
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
Performing Arts
| Entertainment
| Subjects
| Books
| Dance
| Magic & Illusion
| Theater
General
| Performing Arts
| Arts & Photography
| Subjects
| Books
ASIN: 1418429317 |
Customer Reviews:
Beam Me Up, Scotty!!.......2006-03-14
This book is a lovely tribute to a man the world has come to know and love. I recommend this book to all those fans out there who love 'Scotty' - Beam Me Up!!!
A Tribute to James Doohan Book.......2005-03-06
I think that the book is very good for people who are new to Star Trek. For those, like the one who has already reviewed this book, who have been in Star Trek for a while and already know all there is to know about Star Trek, it may be boring to them. But for people new to Star Trek, it is a very good book. I recommend this book.
Not recommended.......2005-02-28
Like its predecessor, A Tribute to Spock: A Reference Guide, this vanity press publication is an odd mishmash of stuff, including a reappearance of some of the poetry/monologues from the first book, several pages of trivia regarding the episodes in which you can see that James Doohan is missing a finger on one hand, material reprinted from other sources without proper attribution (for instance, the Federation Articles and General Orders from the Star Fleet Technical Manual, some recipes from Pocket's Star Trek Cookbook), and a lot of other material likely to confuse anyone who might expect an actual tribute to Doohan or an actual reference book.
Like the first book, this makes very little reference to anything post-Next Generation, and there's not much Next Generation content there, either. It reads like a series of infodumps from random Trek books and websites shoved between the covers of a book, or perhaps a collection of material that didn't quite make it into a Best of Trek book from the mid-1980s. Not recommended.
Books:
- Artists Photo Reference Birds (Artist's Photo Reference)
- Branding: From Brief to Finished Solution
- Building Sci-Fi Moviescapes: The Science Behind the Fiction
- Cat: Seventeenth Anniversary Edition
- Cave Paintings to Picasso: The Inside Scoop on 50 Art Masterpieces
- Chinese Symbolism and Art Motifs
- Collectible Souvenir Spoons: The Grand Tour (Collectible Souvenir Spoons)
- Collecting Early Machine-Made Marbles: The M. F. Christensen & Son Company and Christensen Agate Company
- Color, Light, Sight, Sense
- Color: The Secret Influence, Second Edition
Books Index
Books Home
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- Cowboy Spurs and Their Makers
- Extraordinary Gathering of Angels
- Dying in Style
Art Theory: A Very Short Introduction (Very Short Introductions)
Theories of Art: 1. From Plato to Winckelmann (Theories of Art)
Theory in Contemporary Art since 1985
Art and Social Theory: Sociological Arguments in Aesthetics
The Methodologies of Art: An Introduction (Icon Editions)
