Overview

Our belief in some form of magic runs throughout human history. In fact, in an increasingly rational and scientific world, the idea that occult or arcane knowledge can give us access to another, hidden reality is as strong and widespread as ever. The Occult, Witchcraft and Magic is a lively and fascinating history of all things cryptic, mystic and other-worldly, beginning with the earliest evidence of magical thinking amid the gloom of a Palaeolithic cave, and ending in the bright light of our digital age and its newfound interest in paganism. With hundreds of images drawn from rare and unusual sources, in-depth explorations of cross-cultural themes and profiles of key figures from the history of magic, this is a bewitching and irresistible treasury of esoteric thought that will appeal to believers and sceptics alike.

Full Product Details

9780500518885

Table of Contents

Reviews

[An] invaluable source book on the history and practice of magic and occultism, filled with mystical symbols and perplexing charts. Whether the reader attempts to practice magic upon finishing this book is not as important to Dell as tracing the origins and roots of magic throughout the centuries. Layered throughout is a visually satisfying collection of eclectic and sometimes jarring photographs that will fascinate and stir curiosity.

'A lively and fascinating history of all things cryptic, mystic and other-worldly' - We Make Money Not Art 'Sumptuously illustrated ... pithy text' - Sunday Telegraph 'Handsomely assembled ... an entertaining tour through this sprawling and tangled history' - Daily Telegraph

Author Information

Christopher Dell holds a degree in the History of Art from the Courtauld Institute, London. He has written and edited many bestselling titles on art and visual culture, including Freemasonry, Mythology, Monsters and What Makes a Masterpiece?, all published by Thames & Hudson.

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