Konsten att leva längre : Föreställningar om livets förändring i handböcker 1700-1930

Sammanfattning: The aim of this thesis is to explore discursive changes in conceptions of life course and ageing. I am particularly concerned with the relationship between knowledge and power in the distribution of prolongevity and body- technologies, and as referential frame in the definition of normal and deviant bodies and behaviour. Following the historical processes this study includes advisory literature in the field of prolongevity from 1700-1930. As a conclusion I have distinguished four categories of legends in the material. In analyzing the legends: Antediluvian legends, Hyperborean legends, Fountain legends, and Centenarian legends. The legends of prolongevity intermediate ideas of human ageing in, and between cultures, On a meta-level there has been three discourses intertwining each other in the making of present images on prolongevity and successful ageing: Religion, Science and The Natural. In e discursive struggle during the studied years those components have been competing for domination and space on the prolongevity agenda. The advices reflect a belief in the possibility to transform by means of moderation and harmony; a belief that grew in the eighteenth century and enhanced during the following centuries. The aim was to improve human nature to an ennobled version of her self according to divine standards. Prolongevity was in 1700-1930 a question of reaching a pre-designated length of life given by God or Nature. Today we do not believe in pre-designated life-length we only believe in prolongation. We do want the paradise but we want it here on earth, and we want to be in charge.