Magic in the Middle Ages (Cambridge Medieval Textbooks) - Hardcover

Kieckhefer, Richard

3.96

764 ratings by Goodreads

9780521309417: Magic in the Middle Ages (Cambridge Medieval Textbooks)

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0521309417 ISBN 13: 9780521309417

Publisher: Cambridge University Press, 1990

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This textbook deals with magic, both natural and demonic, within the broad context of medieval culture. Covering the years c. 500 to 1500, with a chapter on antiquity, it invesigates the way magic relates to the many other cultural forms of the time, such as religion and science, literature and art. The book begins with a full discussion of the social history of magic and of the ways in which magical beliefs borrowed from a diversity of cultures. Thereafter, within a wider study of the growth and development of the phenomenon, the author shows how magic served as a point of contact between the popular and elite classes, how the reality of beliefs is reflected in the fiction witchcraft led to changes in the law. The chapter on medieval literature, and how the permagicalsecution of magic and er on necromancy is the most original, based largely on unpublished manuscripts and arguing for a new interpretation of the material. Adopting an interdisciplinary approach Professor Kieckhefer has taken magic from its cultural isolation and placed it firmly at the crossroads of medieval culture, as a focal point for our understanding of many other aspects of medieval history.

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Book Description:

How was magic practised in medieval times? How did it relate to the diverse beliefs and practices that characterised this fascinating period? Richard Kieckhefer surveys the growth and development of magic in medieval times. He examines its relation to religion, science, philosophy, art, literature and politics before introducing us to the different types of magic, the kinds of people who practised magic, and the reasoning behind their beliefs. This book places magic at the crossroads of medieval culture, shedding light on many other aspects of life in the middle ages.

Review:

'Richard Kieckhefer offers a panoramic view of a very diverse set of problems in his cogently organised and revealing book ... imaginative and stimulating ...'. Journal of Medieval History

'... a readable and lively book, whose particular strengths are its confidence and clarity in defining different sorts of magical activities, and the sharp illustrative details ... he deserves congratulations.' History

'The range of primary texts, often quoted from manuscript, and the coverage of secondary literature, in many languages, are impressive features. This is a valuable survey which few will read without learning something new.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

'... stands out amid the many speculative efforts which preceded it; it can be highly recommended as a concise and authoritative history of medieval magic.' Ambix

'This book can be highly recommended.' Medical History

' ... an excellent introduction to an interesting and expanding subject.' BBC History Magazine

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