There is no optical instrument so well known or so highly held in popular estimation as the Magic Lantern. It is somewhat unfortunate that its old appellation, given to it when it was nothing more than a mere toy, should have stuck to it so long. And more than one attempt has been made by those conversant with its capabilities as a scientific instrument, and as an important aid to education, to give it a name more consistent with its real value. - Summary by the author