Oxford Illustrated History of Witchcraft and Magic

This book provides a comprehensive and accessible history of witchcraft and magic,spanning from ancient times to the present,and exploring various beliefs, practices, and cultural representations.

\n Format: Paperback / softback
\n Length: 328 pages
\n Publication date: 22 July 2021
\n Publisher: Oxford University Press
\n

This captivating and comprehensive history offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the intricate and multifaceted tale of witchcraft and magic. Spanning from the emergence of writing in ancient times to the global phenomenon of the Harry Potter films, the authors delve into a diverse array of magical beliefs and practices, the emergence of witch trials, and the portrayal of devil-worshipping witches. Additionally, the book delves into the more recent history of witchcraft and magic, encompassing the Enlightenment to the present. It explores the rise of modern magic, the anthropology of magic across different cultures, and the cinematic representation of witches and magicians, ranging from The Wizard of Oz to Charmed and Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

The authors of this remarkable work take readers on a journey from the dawn of writing in the ancient world to the global success of the Harry Potter films. They explore a wide range of magical beliefs and practices, from the ancient druids to the modern practitioners of witchcraft. The book also delves into the rise of the witch trials, which were a dark period in history when people were accused of witchcraft and often subjected to cruel and painful punishments.

One of the most interesting aspects of the book is its exploration of the depiction of the Devil-worshipping witch. Throughout history, the witch has been portrayed in many different ways, from the evil and malevolent figure in medieval literature to the sympathetic and complex character in modern films and television shows. The authors examine how this portrayal has changed over time and what it reveals about the cultural and societal attitudes towards witchcraft and magic.

The book also focuses on the more recent history of witchcraft and magic, from the Enlightenment to the present. It explores the rise of modern magic, which has been influenced by a variety of factors, including the rise of science, the internet, and the popularization of occultism. The authors also examine the anthropology of magic around the globe, which reveals the diverse ways in which magic is practiced and interpreted in different cultures.

Finally, the book delves into the cinematic portrayal of witches and magicians, from the classic films of the 1930s and 1940s to the modern blockbusters of today. It examines how these portrayals have shaped public perception of witchcraft and magic and how they have influenced the development of the fantasy genre.

In conclusion, this richly illustrated history provides a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the world of witchcraft and magic. It offers a fresh and engaging perspective on the intricate and multifaceted tale, from the dawn of writing to the global success of the Harry Potter films. The authors' insightful analysis and compelling storytelling make this book a must-read for anyone interested in the history, culture, and magic of this fascinating subject.

\n Weight: 738g\n
Dimension: 190 x 245 x 18 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9780192897787\n \n