Extraordinary: The Most Absurd and Ridiculous Mass Hysteria in European History

Author: (English) Mackay
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-04-01
Features: This book tells the story of mass hysteria and disillusionment, fully showcasing the blind and absurd aspects of human nature. For example, stock market speculation mania, relic worship, urban slang, divination, and superstition. Many of the stories are hilarious yet shocking. For instance, during the Middle Ages when alchemy was, alchemists claimed they could turn egg yolks into gold, and both high-ranking officials and common people readily donated generously! Another example is during the stock market frenzy, a hunchback stood on the street, rented out his back to busy stock investors as a temporary desk, and made a fortune! The book is well-documented with historical facts and is both vivid and interesting. The plots are more surprising than the small ones, and there are many stories that are truly "stunning."