Amulets in Magical Practice

The study of amulets, which are unaccompanied by directive textual inscriptions, is the focus of this Element. It explores the associative range of meaning that enabled the attribution of power/agency to the amuletic object and considers this material culture from an interdisciplinary perspective, drawing together insights from cultural studies, religious studies, folk studies, archaeology, and Scandinavian studies. It also develops the concept of trans-aniconism to encapsulate an amulet's temporal relations and proposes the concept of landscape amulets.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 80 pages
Publication date: 25 April 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The study of amulets encompasses the creation and utilization of talismanic objects. With a particular emphasis on amulets devoid of or containing minimal textual content, such as those made from found stone, semi-precious gems, or animal body parts, this field investigates the materiality of these objects to understand their context of use, including ritual and metaphysical practices. Through a discussion of selected case studies from British, Celtic, and Scandinavian cultures, the analysis demonstrates the wide range of meanings attributed to amulets, enabling them to be perceived as possessing power or agency.

Uniquely, this study approaches the material culture of amulets from an interdisciplinary perspective, drawing insights from cultural studies, religious studies, folk studies, archaeology, and Scandinavian studies. It develops the concept of trans-aniconism to encapsulate the temporal relations of amulets and proposes the notion of landscape amulets.

By exploring the multifaceted aspects of amulets, including their materiality, symbolism, and cultural significance, this study sheds light on the enduring power of these objects and their role in human societies across different time periods and regions.

Weight: 134g
Dimension: 150 x 228 x 7 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108948791