Grimoires

A History of Magic Books

Davies author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Oxford University Press

Published:23rd Sep '10

Should be back in stock very soon

Grimoires cover

This book explores the rich history of grimoires, revealing their significance in magic and their impact on European cultural developments.

The fascinating history of magic books, or grimoires, spans from the ancient Middle East to the present day. These texts range from benign charms and remedies to dark pacts with the Devil. Many may recognize the term 'grimoire' from popular culture, yet few truly understand its significance. At its core, a grimoire is a collection of spells that has evolved through centuries, influencing various cultures across the Western Hemisphere and beyond.

Grimoires serve a dual purpose; they offer benign solutions for natural and supernatural ailments while also providing darker instructions for manipulation and summoning evil forces. This duality has allowed grimoires to remain relevant through the ages, captivating those intrigued by both the mystical and the malevolent. The adaptability of these texts speaks to their enduring fascination, as they continue to be a source of intrigue in both historical and modern contexts.

However, the importance of grimoires extends beyond mere magic. Understanding their history reveals much about the broader narrative of European development, including the spread of Christianity, the rise of early science, and the cultural shifts brought about by the print revolution. Grimoires highlight key historical changes that have shaped Western societies over the last two millennia, making them a significant subject of study for anyone interested in the interplay between culture, religion, and the mystical arts.

Excellent and nuanced volume. * Michael Ostling, History Today *
Anyone who is interested in...this subject will find this book an invaluable reference, and they will be entertained. * Alec Ryrie, Times Higher Education05.06.09 *
Erudite and entertaining addition to book scholarship. * Jad Adams, The Guardian *
'Grimoires' is a beautifully produced, surprisingly inexpensive book with black end papers and suitably antique illustrations. * Jad Adams, The Guardian *
This book is undoubtedly a necessary reference work for anyone with a serious interest in the history of magic. * Brian Gibbons, BBC History Magazine *
This is a very well researched book. * Noel Malcolm, Sunday Telegraph *

ISBN: 9780199590049

Dimensions: 214mm x 134mm x 31mm

Weight: 499g

400 pages