The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft by Judika Illes

The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft is Judika Illes’s broad reference to witchcraft, drawing on history, folklore, spirituality and mythology. Its 887 pages range across traditions, magical dates, recipes, cultural depictions and the history of persecution, making it better suited to browsing and reference than a brief introduction.

At a glance

Covers witchcraft history, folklore, spirituality and mythology from traditions around the world.
Includes material on magical dates, witchcraft recipes, mythic and modern witches, and witchcraft in popular culture.
The 887-page format offers substantial breadth for dipping into topics or using as a reference.

Price

£19.99Save 43%

Reference price: ~~£35.00~~

Price checked: 12 Nov 2026

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Pros and cons

Pros

Wide-ranging coverage connects historical and folkloric material with spirituality and popular culture.
Customer feedback describes the book as informative and useful as a reference.

Cons

At 887 pages and a listed 1.05 kg, it is a substantial volume rather than a lightweight carry-around read.

Technical specifications

9 specifications

Book details
Publisher	HarperElement
Publication date	5 Sept. 2005
Edition	Second Impression
Language	English
Print length	887 pages
ISBN-10	0007192932
ISBN-13	978-0007192939

Dimensions and installation
Weight listed	1.05 kg
Dimensions	20.96 x 5.08 x 25.4 cm

What to know before buying

The publisher describes it as an encyclopedia spanning folklore, mythology and witchcraft traditions. The listing does not provide a contents breakdown, so check whether its broad approach matches the topics you want.

Who is it for?

A good fit for

Readers seeking a broad reference on witchcraft, folklore, mythology and magical traditions.
Readers who prefer a substantial book to browse by topic rather than a short, narrowly focused guide.
A gift for someone interested in witchcraft history and folklore.

Less suited to

Readers looking for a brief introduction or a compact book to carry around.
Readers seeking a focused guide to one specific witchcraft tradition or practice.

The Element Encyclopedia of Witchcraft by Judika Illes · photo 2 — Additional product photo 2

Customer reviews on Amazon

4.8 / 5 · 1,713 ratings

5 stars88%88%
4 stars7%7%
3 stars3%3%
2 stars1%1%
1 star1%1%

Customer feedback highlights informative content and usefulness as a reference, with readers also describing the book as well researched and good value. The predominantly five-star rating distribution supports a broadly favourable overall impression, but does not establish that every topic or treatment will suit every reader. Its breadth and 887-page length make the reported reference usefulness most relevant to readers who want a substantial book to consult over time.

Positive themes

Customers describe the content as informative and the book as a good reference.
Customer feedback characterises it as well researched and worth the money.

Frequently asked questions

What subjects does this encyclopedia cover?

The listing describes coverage of witchcraft history, folklore, spirituality and mythology, including magical dates, recipes, cultural depictions and traditions from around the world.

Is it a short introduction to witchcraft?

No. The listed 887-page length and broad subject range make it a substantial reference for browsing, rather than a concise introductory guide.

What language and edition are listed?

The listing gives the language as English and the edition as Second Impression.