"Bangkok is one of Asia's most interesting, varied, controversial and challenging cities. It is a city of contradictions, both in its present and its past. This book examines the development of the city from its earliest days as the seat of the Thai monarchy to its current position as an infamous contemporary metropolis." "Bangkok: Place, Practice and Representation is an in-depth study of the institutions and the people who shape the Thai metropolis. Adopting insights from anthropology, urban studies and human geography, the book is a powerful account of the city and its dynamic spaces. Marc Askew examines the city's variety, from the inner-city slums to the rural-urban fringe, and gives us a keen insight into the daily life of the city's inhabitants, be they middle-class suburbanites or women sex workers." "Accessibly written and rich in detail, maps and photographs, this is the definitive account of the Thai capital. It should be essential reading for anyone with an interest in urban studies, anthropology or Asian studies, as well as the general reader wanting to learn more about this complex city."--Jacket.