The Advancement of Ignorance: Stories

by William F. Van Wert

Price $13.95

ISBN 1-886157-19-7

This collection of satirical stories uses the life of Spanish explorer Hernando Cortez as a theme upon which to improvise imaginary through irreverent encounters between Cortez and other historical figures, including Erasmus, Martin Luther, and Cervantes. The author's playful use of puns, witty anachronisms and cleverly fractured historical revelations give this book a humorous punch.

Van Wert has published eight previous books of fiction, poetry, memoir and film criticism. His work has been included in the O. Henry Prize Stories and other anthologies. His work has also appeared in publications such as North American Review, Georgia Review, TriQuarterly, and The Chicago Tribune. Van Wert teaches creative writing and film studies at Temple University in Philadelphia.