Creative Histories of Witchcraft: France, 1790-1940

Researchers can study magic without destroying its mystery by using creative-academic research tools such as writing to discover, borrowing forms, using the whole page, playing with footnotes, erasing the sources, writing short, accumulating fragments, re-enacting, improvising, using dialogue, changing perspective, making methods of metaphors, and using props. These tools help to untell the dominant narratives that shape stereotypes of the witch and frame belief in witchcraft as ignorant and outdated. The Element includes practical creative exercises and research materials from French newspaper and trial sources from the period.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 23 June 2022
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Researchers have long been intrigued by the mysteries of magic, but the fear of destroying its essence has often hindered their exploration. However, a collaborative project between the playwright Poppy Corbett, the poet Anna Kisby Compton, and the historian William G. Pooley has provided thirteen innovative tools for creative-academic research into magic. These tools are designed to help researchers delve into the world of magic without compromising its enigmatic nature.

One of the key tools presented in the Element is the idea of "writing to discover." This approach encourages researchers to approach their study of magic with an open mind and a willingness to experiment. By writing freely and without constraints, researchers can uncover new insights and perspectives that may have been previously overlooked. For example, one researcher involved in the project wrote a series of letters to a fictional witch, exploring her beliefs, practices, and motivations. Through this process, the researcher gained a deeper understanding of the complexities of magic and its relationship to society.

Another tool is the use of "borrowed forms." This approach involves incorporating elements of other artistic mediums, such as poetry, music, or dance, into the study of magic. By doing so, researchers can gain a fresh perspective on the subject and explore the ways in which magic is expressed and interpreted across different cultural and historical contexts. For instance, one researcher studied the use of magic in French folktales and found that the stories often incorporated elements of music and dance to enhance their mystical and magical qualities.

The Element also emphasizes the importance of using the whole page when writing about magic. This means that researchers should not be afraid to fill the page with text, images, and other visual elements to create a rich and immersive experience for their readers. By doing so, researchers can convey the complexity and depth of the magic they are studying and help their readers to fully engage with the subject.

One particularly innovative tool is the use of "footnotes." Footnotes can be used to provide additional information, context, and commentary on the text, allowing researchers to expand on their ideas and explore the nuances of magic. For example, one researcher used footnotes to provide historical context for a particular magical practice, explaining how it evolved over time and how it was influenced by different cultural and social factors.

Another tool is the idea of "erasing the sources." This approach involves removing the names of the authors and publishers of the research materials used in the study of magic. By doing so, researchers can create a sense of anonymity and distance, allowing them to approach the subject with a more open and unbiased perspective. This can be particularly useful when studying historical sources, as it allows researchers to focus on the content of the material rather than being influenced by the biases of the authors.

The Element also includes practical creative exercises that researchers can use to explore the world of magic. These exercises range from writing short stories and poems to creating visual art and performance pieces. By engaging in these creative activities, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the emotional and psychological aspects of magic and how it is experienced by different individuals and communities.

In addition to these tools, the Element provides research materials from French newspaper and trial sources from the period. These sources offer a wealth of information about the practices, beliefs, and experiences of witches and magicians during the 1790–1940 period in France. By using these materials, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the social and cultural context in which magic was practiced and how it was perceived by society.

Overall, the Element provides a valuable resource for researchers interested in exploring the mysteries of magic without compromising its essence. By using a combination of creative and academic approaches, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of the subject and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the role of magic in society. Whether they are interested in history, literature, art, or psychology, the thirteen tools presented in the Element offer a wealth of possibilities for innovative and exciting research.

Weight: 134g
ISBN-13: 9781009221030