Candles Flickered explores the surprisingly rich history of candles, revealing how this simple object illuminated not just homes, but also shaped cultures and religions. Before electricity, candles were essential, influencing everything from daily routines to artistic expression.
The book traces the development of candle-making technologies, from early rushlights to beeswax creations, alongside the evolution of candlemakers' guilds.
The book delves into the candle's cultural impact, examining its presence in homes, businesses, and public spaces. It reveals the candle's significant role in religious rituals across various cultures, highlighting its symbolic importance in ceremonies and festivals.
The narrative progresses chronologically, integrating historical research with cultural analysis to demonstrate how the changing role of candles reflects broader historical shifts and innovations in ancient technologies. Through diverse sources like archaeological findings and religious documents, Candles Flickered offers a comprehensive account of the candle's journey.
By connecting history with anthropology, art history, and studies of material culture, the book provides a multifaceted understanding of the candle's enduring influence on human civilization and its pre-electric lighting relevance.
