The Life of Guy: Guy Fawkes, the Gunpowder Plot, and the Unlikely History of an Indispensable Word
The word guy(s) is a modern conversation staple, but in 17th century England its association with the treason of the Gunpowder Plot meant it was rarely if ever used. So how did a word synonymous with villany become a socially accepted second-person plural pronoun? Allan Melcalf’s deep dive into history uncovers the intrigue, murderous plots, and torture from which the word Guy emerged in 1605. From the religious controversies of Stuart England all the way to America, Guy took on a life of its own eventually finding a home in popular culture (V for Vendetta is the modern revival of Guy Fawkes) and everyday chat. Metcalf explores the improbable history of a word that is indispensable to our daily lives.
Hardcover: 176 Pages
Language: English
Format: Kindle Edition & Hardcover
