What Does The Geographical Space Of The Carnival Mean

Paul uses the geographical space of the carnival to help himself, as well as others, achieve personal freedom. Geographical space refers to the physical borders and boundaries that are often created by characters to shed light on their mindsets. In Paul’s case, he creates a unique magic show that provides the audience with the freedom from reality they aspire to achieve at the carnival through magic, laughter and role reversal. Paul works to incorporate unique and grotesque characters who would not be accepted in society as the “classically aesthetic” image. Instead, they accentuate the concept of equality through the “celebration of incompleteness, transgression and the disruption of expectations.” (Robinson) Paul’s upbringing, led by Willard,
Even though his unconventional upbringing transgresses the norms of society by using magic and by being held hostage, Willard exposed Paul to the wonders of a carnival and all of the things he would have missed if he’d been raised by his father. Paul creates a new identity as Magnus Eisengrim to help save others through his magic which he amplifies with the geographical space of the carnival. He helps people achieve their personal freedom because he can relate to people who need a “carnivalesque perspective on life and society.” (Aschkenasy 5) He wants to make them feel special and liberated away from their daily responsibilities through “role reversal” that allows the “lows” of society to be treated equally during the magic shows. Paul accepts volunteers and caters to people’s inner desires through hypnotism which then leaves them “unimpaired, and indeed with a heightened sense of importance.” (Davies 194) This gives Paul a sense of personal freedom which he would not have achieved in Deptford where he was always considered an outcast. At the carnival, he is relied upon to entertain and enlighten people as well as celebrate their