History of Magic: From Alchemy to Witchcraft, from the Ice Age to the Present

In his book "The Magic of Reality," Simon Sebag Montefiore explores the role of magic in cultures both ancient and modern, from the first known horoscope to the power of tattoos. He argues that magic has been with us for millennia and that seventy-five percent of the Western world holds some belief in it. Professor Chris Gosden provides a timely history of human thought and the role it has played in shaping civilization, and how we might use magic to rethink our understanding of the world.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 512 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2021
Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd

A captivating and groundbreaking exploration of the profound and enduring influence of magic across cultures, from ancient times to the present day. This remarkable book delves into the diverse practices, beliefs, and rituals associated with magic, shedding light on its historical significance and its continued relevance in contemporary society.

Three fundamental strands of human practice and belief have shaped our history: science, religion, and magic. However, magic, which embodies the belief in a connection with the universe, has often been tarnished with a negative reputation. Despite its ancient origins, spanning millennia from the curses and charms of ancient Greek, Roman, and Jewish magic to the shamanistic traditions of Eurasia, indigenous America, and Africa, as well as its contemporary manifestation in quantum physics, magic remains deeply ingrained in human culture.

In this comprehensive work, Professor Chris Gosden, a renowned expert in the field, presents a timely and insightful history of human thought and its role in shaping civilization. Drawing on his extensive research and remarkable breadth of knowledge, Professor Gosden explores how magic has evolved and intersected with other belief systems, challenging our preconceived notions and offering fresh perspectives on the world.

One of the book's most remarkable aspects is its ability to demystify magic and reveal its profound connections to human beings and the universe. Professor Gosden demonstrates how magic explores the boundaries between the known and the unknown, offering insights into the mysteries of existence and the potential for personal transformation. Through its exploration of rituals, symbols, and practices, magic serves as a means of tapping into the power of the natural world and harnessing it for personal gain or spiritual enlightenment.

What sets this book apart is its exhilarating lightness of touch, which makes it accessible to a wide audience. While delving into the complexities of magic, Professor Gosden weaves a narrative that is engaging, informative, and thought-provoking. The book is filled with captivating anecdotes, historical accounts, and philosophical insights, making it an essential reading for anyone interested in the history, philosophy, and cultural significance of magic.

In conclusion, "Magic: A History" is a remarkable work of learning that offers a fresh and insightful perspective on the role of magic in human culture. Written with an exhilarating lightness of touch, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the world and its mysteries. By exploring the connections between human beings and the universe in ways distinct from religion or science, magic provides a valuable lens through which we can reimagine our understanding of the world and our place within it.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 129 x 196 x 35 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780241979662