Aeroscopics

"Aeroscopics is a first and final word on the aerial imagination in modern times. In both manner and matter, the book inspires and elevates."--Tom Conley, Lowell Professor, Film and Visual Studies, Harvard University "Uncovering its forgotten history, this fascinating book draws out the popular, playful, dizzying, and oscillating perspectives made possible by the aerial gaze. Both rigorous and engaging, Aeroscopics gives us fresh ways of understanding the conceptual and visceral experiences of vertical space. This is media archaeology at its best."--Isabelle McNeill, Lecturer in French and Film at Trinity Hall, University of Cambridge "Skillfully treading along the boundaries of mapping, art, and media studies, Aeroscopics is a revelation and a genuine delight to read."--James Akerman, Director of the Hermon Dunlap Smith Center for the History of Cartography and Curator of Maps at the Newberry Library "A soaring, brilliant account of the various media that have provided aerial views and a sterling example of media archaeology, Aeroscopics brings rigor and imagination to the task of seeing old technologies when they were new. Dizzyingly original, Patrick Ellis's account complements the recent emphasis on drones and the militarized aerial view, uncovering a tradition in which the 'compass of knowledge tilts from observation to intoxication.'--Oliver Gaycken, University of Maryland, College Park