Pleasurescapes on the Edge: Performing Modernity on Urban Waterfronts (1880-1960)

Abstract

“Pleasurescapes,” also called amusement or entertainment quarters, are public spaces that are constituent for modern cities. They emerged during the period of urbanization and were constantly reshaped and negotiated. “Pleasurescapes” is an analytical concept that describes and reflects the historical, spatial, sociocultural, and infrastructural development of pleasure spaces during the long turn of the century around 1900. This issue explores the particular role of pleasurescapes on waterfronts and in port cities.