The Witchcraft Reader (Routledge Readers in History)

Routledge Readers in History

by Darren Oldridge

Notions of witchcraft have haunted and fascinated the human mind for centuries. At the height of witchcraft persecutions in 16th and 17th century Europe, some 50,000 people were executed, accused of murder, cannibalism, black magic, and devil worshipping. The Witchcraft Reader offers a selection of the best historical writing on witchcraft, exploring how belief in witchcraft began, and the social and cultural context in which this belief flourished. A whole range of historical perspectives is collected here, including recent research on the role of gender in witch trials, ideas about the devil and demonic possession, and reasons for the decline of witch trials. The major themes and debates in the study of witchcraft are brought together in a general introduction, which places the extracts in a critical context. Bringing together a wide range of important work in a single, accessible volume, The Witchcraft Reader is ideal for students and general readers intrigued by this complex and fascinating subject.

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Witchcraft, Witches, Religion, School, Mythology

Paperback

First published November 28, 2001

Reviews

[sophia]

Read for a project for my European History class. I liked the diversity in topics, writers, and opinions. I skipped some parts so I'm not sure if I can review this in whole.

Also—I'm realizing that this title makes it look like it's a guidebook on witchcraft itself rather than the history and development of witchcraft and witch hunts in the western world. It's the latter.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

It's a very informative book on a topic that isn't much appreciated or discussed. The chapters are short and to the point. It was a great read for the class I took this year at college, called "Witchcraft, Magic, and Occult."

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book as a part of my research into the causes of the European witch trials. It covers a vast array of topics over its many chapters and has helped me greatly in preparing to write my paper. I believe the most note worthy chapter was chapter 21 which commented on religion being a cause, i found this very useful as the content was accurate however the argument was narrow minded as it did not consider other causes I guess this just shows why you should view everyone's opinion with some scepticism. Overall I loved this book so vast and informative. I can not recommend it enough.

[Erika · Rating 4 out of 5]

Excellent compilation of key excerpts from witchcraft historiography perfect for upper division undergrad classes

[Jessie Keith · Rating 3 out of 5]

An excellently curated collection of perspectives on various aspects of witch persecution in Europe. Definitely a solid companion to coursework on the same.

[Terri Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really learned a lot from the articles in this book that covered European and American witchcraft accusations and trials. It is fascinating historical reading and though it is used in history and literary witchcraft courses, it doesn't feel like a textbook. I learned a lot of things here.

[Mills College Library]

133.4309 W8195 2008