Decline of Magic: Britain in the Enlightenment

In Enlightenment Britain, belief in prophecies, omens, ghosts, apparitions, and fairies was common, but in the eighteenth century, freethinkers, not scientists, challenged orthodox religion and magic, leading to a change in attitude. This change was due to the growth of confidence in a stable world in which magic no longer had a place, rather than the testing of magic.

Format: Hardback
Length: 288 pages
Publication date: 03 January 2020
Publisher: Yale University Press

In the vibrant tapestry of early modern Britain, a prevailing belief in prophecies, omens, ghosts, apparitions, and fairies permeated the hearts and minds of people from all walks of life. The absolute existence of a spiritual realm was an unquestioned assumption, ingrained in both the educated and the ordinary. Yet, as the eighteenth century unfolded, a seismic shift occurred, casting aside these steadfast certainties. The credit for this monumental transformation is often attributed to science, particularly the esteemed scientists of the Royal Society. However, in the pages of his compelling book, Michael Hunter challenges this conventional narrative, asserting that the true pioneers of this shift in attitude were not scientists but freethinkers. While some scientists may have defended the existence of supernatural phenomena, these skeptical humanists drew upon the wisdom of ancient authors to mount a scathing critique not only of orthodox religion but also of magic and other superstitious practices. Undeterred by the potential tarnishment of their reputation and the delayed acceptance of anti-magical views, these freethinkers persisted in their pursuit of truth. And slowly but surely, the tides of change began to sweep over society. It was not the rigorous testing of magic that propelled this transformation, but rather the gradual cultivation of confidence in a stable world where magic no longer held a place. The seeds of doubt were sown, and as they took root, a new perspective emerged, one that saw the world as a complex and interconnected tapestry, where the boundaries between science and magic blurred and where the power of reason and empirical evidence took center stage. This shift in mindset, driven by the tireless efforts of freethinkers, paved the way for a more enlightened and rational society, where the pursuit of knowledge and understanding transcended the confines of superstition and myth. In the annals of history, the eighteenth century stands as a pivotal period, marking the moment when science and freethinking converged to reshape the world's perception of the supernatural. Through their tireless exploration and critical thinking, these visionaries forged a path toward a future where reason and evidence guided human endeavors, and where the magic of the past gave way to the wonders of the present and the possibilities of the future.

Weight: 586g
Dimension: 165 x 242 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780300243581