This beautifully illustrated book reveals Burmese marionettes to have been much more than mere entertainment: as speakers of both kings and men they were a means of informing people of current events and a medium for educating the population about literature, history, religion, lifestyle and customs.  Included are descriptions of the Grand Imperial Stage and lesser stages, the 1821 Edict on Marionettes, the accompanying orchestra, individual puppet characters, the making of marionettes, puppeteers, today's venue at the Pagoda Festival, and a cultural glossary.