Join us for the latest WCHOF Book Group, The Chess Machine by Robert Lohr—an engaging narrative set in 18th Century Vienna at the height of the Enlightenment. Baron Wolfgang von Kempelen unveils an amazing invention, the Mechanical Turk, an unbeatable chess-playing automaton. But what the Hapsburg court hails as the greatest innovation of the century is really nothing more than a brilliant illusion. When a beautiful and seductive countess dies in the presence of the automaton, the Mechanical Turk falls under a cloud of suspicion, and the machine and his inventor become the target of espionage, persecution, and aristocratic intrigue. Lohr’s brilliant storytelling explores issues of illusion and reality, the mind and machines, and the roles of God and man. We’ll discuss this narrative, filled with period details and brimming with lust and deception, and share some of the questions and ideas that were generated by our readings.
*Free admission for WCHOF members. Hors d’oeuvres and refreshments are provided.
For more information or to reserve a spot please email: events@worldchesshof.org.
Metered on-street parking is available, as well as paid lots adjacent to Kingside Diner and at the Schlafly branch of the St. Louis Public Library.
Wednesday, Mar 7 - 6:30 pm Register Now