Magic: A History: From Alchemy to Witchcraft, from the Ice Age to the Present
Nov 2020 · Sold by Farrar, Straus and Giroux
Ebook
512
Pages
family_home
Eligible
info
About this ebook
Magic: Unveiling the Enduring Power of an Ancient Art in Human History
In Magic: A History, Oxford professor of archaeology Chris Gosden explores the unique and often misunderstood history of magic—the oldest and most neglected strand of human behavior. Gosden reveals magic's essential role in shaping civilizations, from the curses and charms of ancient Greek, Roman, and Jewish traditions to the shamanistic practices of Eurasia, indigenous America, and Africa.
Despite its tarnished reputation, magic has endured as a powerful force, influencing our relationship with the world. Gosden traces its evolution through the alchemy of the Renaissance, the colonial era's condemnation, and the mysteries of modern quantum physics. Drawing on decades of global research, he uncovers fascinating stories like the first known horoscope, a statue banished into exile, and the mystical power of tattoos.
Magic: A History offers a missing chapter in the story of our civilization, inviting readers to rethink their understanding of this ancient art. Gosden's startling, engaging, and expansive work of scholarship weaves together anthropology, sociology, religious studies, and cultural history, leaving a lasting spell on all who venture into its pages.
In Magic: A History, Oxford professor of archaeology Chris Gosden explores the unique and often misunderstood history of magic—the oldest and most neglected strand of human behavior. Gosden reveals magic's essential role in shaping civilizations, from the curses and charms of ancient Greek, Roman, and Jewish traditions to the shamanistic practices of Eurasia, indigenous America, and Africa.
Despite its tarnished reputation, magic has endured as a powerful force, influencing our relationship with the world. Gosden traces its evolution through the alchemy of the Renaissance, the colonial era's condemnation, and the mysteries of modern quantum physics. Drawing on decades of global research, he uncovers fascinating stories like the first known horoscope, a statue banished into exile, and the mystical power of tattoos.
Magic: A History offers a missing chapter in the story of our civilization, inviting readers to rethink their understanding of this ancient art. Gosden's startling, engaging, and expansive work of scholarship weaves together anthropology, sociology, religious studies, and cultural history, leaving a lasting spell on all who venture into its pages.
Magic: Unveiling the Enduring Power of an Ancient Art in Human History
In Magic: A History, Oxford professor of archaeology Chris Gosden explores the unique and often misunderstood history of magic—the oldest and most neglected strand of human behavior. Gosden reveals magic's essential role in s...
Discover more
About the author
Chris Gosden is a professor of European archaeology at the University of Oxford. Previously he was a curator and lecturer at the Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford, where he encountered many magical objects displayed in a scientific manner. Gosden is a Fellow of the British Academy and the Society of Antiquaries.
Chris Gosden is a professor of European archaeology at the University of Oxford. Previously he was a curator and lecturer at the Pitt Rivers Museum, Oxford, where he encountered many magical objects displayed in a scientific manner. Gosden is a Fellow of the British Academy and the Society of Ant...
Rate this ebook
Tell us what you think.
Reading information
Smartphones and tablets
Install the Google Play Books app for Android and iPad/iPhone. It syncs automatically with your account and allows you to read online or offline wherever you are.
Laptops and computers
You can listen to audiobooks purchased on Google Play using your computer's web browser.
eReaders and other devices
To read on e-ink devices like Kobo eReaders, you'll need to download a file and transfer it to your device. Follow the detailed Help Center instructions to transfer the files to supported eReaders.
