Intriguing, thoroughly researched volume provides expert historical view of demonology and the occult, drawing information from the Bible, literary classics, personal memoirs, correspondence, and court records. Scholarly, yet highly readable study defines witchcraft, then examines ceremonial practices, the casting of spells and conjuring, celebration of the Black Mass, and much more. A masterfully written work for anyone interested in supernatural phenomena, this book has been hailed by critic H. L. Mencken as "learned, honest, and amusing."
Here's a sample of other books in this Dover category
Witchcraft, Magic and Alchemy by Emile Grillot de Givry Historical tour of the occult offers a captivating exploration of sorcery and ceremonial magic. Its 375 rare black-and-white illustrations depict possession and exorcism, curses, Kabbalah, tarot, witches' sabbath, alchemy, more.
The Malleus Maleficarum of Heinrich Kramer and James Sprenger by Montague Summers Full text of most important witchhunter's "bible," used by both Catholics and Protestants. First published in 1486, the book includes everything known at the time about cults, illicit sex, dealings with the devil, and more.
Compendium Maleficarum: The Montague Summers Edition by Francesco Maria Guazzo Extraordinary document (1608) on witchcraft and demonology offers striking insight into early 17th century mind. Serious discussions of witches’ powers, poisons, crimes, more. Rare limited edition.
Magic: A History of Its Rites, Rituals, and Mysteries by Éliphas Lévi, A. E. Waite A great literary work as well as a classic of occultism, this 1860 survey chronicles the practice of magic through the ages. Intriguing topics include hypnotism, astrology, and the Illuminati.
A Popular History of Witchcraft by Montague Summers Catholic priest and eminent scholar, Montague Summers firmly believed in witchcraft, demonology, and vampirism, about which he wrote several authoritative books. As the title indicates, this is a popular history, offering everything you ever wanted to know about black magic, from ordinary mischief to elaborate hexes.
Vampires and Vampirism by Montague Summers Study examines vampire lore in fantastic detail, addressing such issues as how vampires came into existence, vampirish behavior, vampire-like ancient myths, and vampires in modern literature.
An Examen of Witches by Henry Boguet, Montague Summers Compiled in the 16th century by France's most ruthless inquisitor, this is the definitive witch-hunter's handbook. It recounts the accusations and trials that led to the deaths of countless victims.
