Magic, Witchcraft, and Ghosts in the Enlightenment

During the Enlightenment, belief in magic, witchcraft, and ghosts persisted among the general population, despite intellectual criticism. The volume "Magic, Witchcraft, and Ghosts in the Enlightenment" explores these beliefs and practices across Great Britain, France, Germany, and Hungary, highlighting continuity and innovation in magical ideas, understanding of ghosts, and attitudes toward witchcraft. It is a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of the period.

Format: Hardback
Length: 204 pages
Publication date: 18 March 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Magic, Witchcraft, and Ghosts in the Enlightenment explores the profound significance of magical practices and ideas throughout the extensive eighteenth century. While the pursuit of witches in Europe witnessed a significant decline after 1650, and the intellectual defense of natural magic faced criticism by 1700, belief in magic persisted among the general populace. The philosophes, in their pursuit of enlightenment, continued to target magical practices alongside religion as superstitions that needed to be abandoned by an enlightened age. Alongside a continuity of beliefs and practices, the eighteenth century also witnessed advancements and innovations in magical ideas, the understanding of ghosts, and attitudes toward witchcraft. This comprehensive volume adopts a broad geographical approach, encompassing essays focused on Great Britain (England and Ireland), France, Germany, and Hungary. It also adopts a wide-ranging approach to the subject matter, including essays on astrology, alchemy, witchcraft, cunning folk, ghosts, treasure hunters, and purveyors of magic. Spanning the late seventeenth century to the early nineteenth century, this volume serves as a valuable resource for undergraduates, postgraduates, scholars, and enthusiasts alike, with an interest in magic, witchcraft, and spirits during the Enlightenment era.

Weight: 454g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367502775