The Witchcraft Reader

Routledge Readers in History

by Darren Oldridge (Editor)

The Witchcraft Reader draws together the best historical writing on the subject, exploring the origins and consequences of the fear of witches. The Reader traces the development of witch beliefs in the late Middle Ages, the social and political dynamics of witch-hunts in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, and the continuing relevance of the subject today. This second edition has been extensively revised and updated to include important new research in the field. There are expanded sections on witchcraft in the Middle Ages and the role of gender in witch trials, as well as new work on demonic possession and the decline and survival of witch beliefs. 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 and each extract has an introduction which contextualizes its author. The Witchcraft Reader offers a wide range of historical perspectives in a single, accessible volume aimed at anyone intrigued by this complex and fascinating subject.

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

424 pages, 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