The magic books: a history of enchantment in twenty exceptional manuscripts

Lawrence-Mathers, A. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6216-624X (2024) The magic books: a history of enchantment in twenty exceptional manuscripts. Yale University Press, London, pp368. ISBN 9780300244434 (In Press)

Abstract/Summary

This monograph traces the history of medieval magic across Europe, from the Carolingian Empire to Tudor England. Each chapter focuses on surviving manuscripts of key texts, and analyses the forms of magic (or magical science) found in them. Attention is paid to the owners of the manuscripts, to evidence of use, and to the role of images within the manuscripts. The book demonstrates that magic was taken seriously in both ecclesiastical and royal circles, and that it could provide inspiration for works of art. Discussions of contemporary debates on the legality and dangers of magic are also given.