The Turk, Chess Automaton - Hardcover

Levitt, Gerald M.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0786407786 ISBN 13: 9780786407781

Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc, 2000

Synopsis

With all-new research and facts unknown for two centuries, this is a richly detailed and comprehensive account of "The Turk," Baron Wolfgang von Kempelen's amazing but fraudulent Chess Automaton that held the world spellbound for 85 years beginning in 1770. In actuality, the Turk was manipulated by a man housed in a hot box, working by candlelight--but the secret was kept for decades. Besides playing a good game of chess within an hour's time, the manipulator had to keep track of the moves, work the pantograph arm apparatus, nod the head, roll the eyes, cover up sneezes and coughs, and work the sound mechanism. This work contains a detailed discussion of the literature surrounding the Turk along with an analysis of its hidden operation. The complete collection of published games played by the Turk, many, again, unknown for 200 years, is also included.

About this title

Review

"fascinating"--The Washington Post; "detailed and thoroughly documented history"--C&RL News; "deeply researched...highly recommended"--Blitz Chess; "exhaustive details"--Chess Horizons; "Dr. Levitt's new book is indispensable to everyone with the slightest interest in the subject...this book is essential to anyone studying the Turk...a handsome, hardbound book, that tells a gripping tale, it is well worth its price"--Quarterly for Chess History; "deeply researched...brilliantly put together...will fascinate chessplayers and nonchessplayers alike"--Inside Chess Online; "the most complete compilation of information about the Turk ever in one volume...a fine piece of work...recommended"--ChessCafe.com; "a really special book...a fascinating book that has been written in a very readable way...fascinating stories...highly recommended"--Magic Week; "a delightful book"--British Chess Magazine; "outstanding...extensive research...most interesting"--Musical Box Society International; "very eye-appealing...generously illustrated"--Infinityplus; "interesting"--The Intelligencer Record; "lavishly illustrated...a delightful book to read"--Book Lover's Review; "beautifully researched"--Global Stamp News.

About the Author

Gerald M. Levitt has been playing postal and over-the-board chess for many years. He has authored numerous articles for Chess Life and Florida Chess, written a chess column, and made live radio appearances as a chess expert. A retired doctor of podiatric medicine, he lives in Naples, Florida.

Edition details

• Publisher: McFarland & Co Inc
• Publication date: 2000
• ISBN 10: 0786407786
• ISBN 13: 9780786407781
• Binding: Hardcover
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 268