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A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult

By DK
Series: DK A History of
4.03 goodreads logo

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( 1,198 ratings, 157 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult by DK explores the fascinating evolution of magic from ancient times to the present. It delves into various magical traditions, famous practitioners, and their impact on culture and society. Richly illustrated, this book offers a comprehensive look at the mystical and supernatural through history.
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Format: Hardback
$4800
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might like this book if you are fascinated by the historical development of magical practices, witchcraft, and occult traditions throughout various cultures and time periods. It offers visually engaging content with detailed illustrations and comprehensive coverage of mystical beliefs and practices.

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Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Dive into the enchanting and often misunderstood world of witchcraft, magic, and the occult with A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult by DK. This lavishly illustrated volume draws readers into a beguiling journey through the ages, from Palaeolithic cave rituals to the contemporary practices of modern paganism and Wicca. The book masterfully weaves together historical narratives, exploring how humanity's fascination with the supernatural has shaped cultures, influenced societies, and sparked controversies over centuries.

Readers will be captivated by the history of witchcraft, tracing its roots and evolution through lush imagery and comprehensive accounts. This title charts the extraordinary narrative of this compelling and often controversial subject, covering a vast timeline. Witness the transformation from ancient animal worship and shamanistic practices to the alchemy and divination of the Middle Ages. Explore the revival of the occult in the 21st century, taking note of its impact on modern literature, cinema, and television.

A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult offers an objective and balanced view, presenting information about various cultural beliefs and practices around the world. The book provides detailed insights into Japanese folklore, Indian witchcraft, and the distinctions between black and white magic. It also aims to debunk widely held myths, such as those surrounding the notorious voodoo doll and the mysterious Ouija board.

This volume serves as the perfect introduction to the realms of magic and the occult. It explores different forms of divination, such as astrology, palmistry, the Tarot, and runestones. Discover the mystical properties of plants and potions, from the fabled mandrake to other magical herbs. Literature enthusiasts will find delight in the presence of witchcraft in literary works spanning from Shakespeare's Macbeth to the beloved Harry Potter series.

A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult also thoroughly examines how magic has interacted with religion throughout history, detailing both cooperation and conflict. This wide-ranging volume is sure to enthral both believers and sceptics alike with its richly illustrated, accessible entries, making it the most comprehensive illustrated history of witchcraft available.

Whether you are curious about the mystical or a seasoned devotee, A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult promises to fascinate with its compelling narratives and stunning visuals, paving an immersive path through the chronicles of the supernatural.

Series: DK A History of

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  • A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult
    Dive into the enchanting and often misunderstood world of witchcraft, magic, and the occult with A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult by DK. This lavishly illustrated volume draws readers into a beguiling journey through the ages, from Palaeolithic cave rituals to the contemporary practices of modern paganism and Wicca. The book masterfully weaves together historical narratives, exploring how...
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    A millennia-long love affair with prediction and divination Discover the spellbinding history of astrology and divination across the world. A History of Astrology, Divination and Prophecy traces the journey of astrology from its roots in the 3rd century BCE, when ancient Mesopotamians studied celestial bodies with the aim of predicting the future, through its development into the distinct branches of...
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  • A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural
    A spine-chilling illustrated history Discover the spine-chilling history of ghosts and the supernatural across the world in this illustrated guide. A History of Ghosts, Spirits and the Supernatural charts the extraordinary narrative of one of the most fascinating and controversial subjects in the world, covering everything from Neolithic ancestor worship and ancient necromancy to modern-day ghost-hunting and creepypasta tales, and...
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Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

A History of Magic, Witchcraft and the Occult by DK has been positively received for its comprehensive coverage, stunning visuals, and well-organised content. Reviewers commend its engaging narrative and rich historical context, making it an excellent resource for both casual readers and enthusiasts interested in the subject.

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Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9780241386118

Publisher: Dorling Kindersley Ltd

Format: Hardback

Date Published: 06 August 2020

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: DK

Contributors:

  • Foreword by Suzannah Lipscomb

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 29.0mm

Width: 218.0mm

Height: 263.0mm

Weight: 1403g

Pages: 320

About the Author

Professor Suzannah Lipscomb (spokesperson) is an historian, author, broadcaster, and award-winning professor of history at the University of Roehampton. A Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, her research focuses on the sixteenth century, both on English and French history, and she is especially interested in the intersection of religious, gender, political, social, and psychological history; in ordinary women's lives, faith, marriages, and sexuality; and in witchcraft and witch-trials.

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