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Evil and the Demonic

A New Theory of Monstrous Behavior
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The notion of evil- does it exist? what forms does it take? -has always fascinated humankind. The evil underlying such atrocities as the Holocaust, Communist China's Tibetan abattoir, and the murderous ethnic cleansing undertaken by the Serbs and Croats seems beyond explanations or analysis. In this powerfully original work, Oppenheimer analyzes the phenomenon of evil in a mental behavior that emerges in particular conditions. Oppenheimer argues that evil contains specific, predictable ingredients. By understanding its nature, we can diagnose its specific manifestations in mass murder, genocide, and serial killings. Utilizing a variety of cinematic and literary genres in developing its evidence, the book considers such familiar films as The Silence of the Lambs and Brazil, and draws upon such literary works as Richard III, Oedipus the King and the Picture of Dorian Gray. Evil and the Demonic takes a bold first step, providing a framework in which to place the horrors of human existence.
Paul Oppenheimer is Professor of Comparative Medieval Literature and English at the City University of New York and Visiting Professor at University College London. He has taught in the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, and he is the author of poems and short stories.
"What is compelling, different and page-turning about this impressive book is that the author analyses evil through the medium of films and literature ... Cinema buffs will find it a fascinating read." -Evening Standard "A wild and exuberant romp through the terrain of the monstrous ... Oppenheimer's lucid explanations are the perfect antidotes to the sordid scenes he recreates." -American Book Review "A masterly and original study of one of the most frightening topics with which human beings have to struggle." -Literary Review
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