The Magic Books: A History of Enchantment in 20 Medieval Manuscripts
The Magic Books: A History of Enchantment in 20 Medieval Manuscripts by Anne Lawrence-Mathers explores medieval magic through twenty illuminated manuscripts, tracing changing attitudes to magic and science across Europe. Its focus on historic texts and their illustrations makes it a fit for readers interested in medieval history, manuscript culture and the history of magic.
At a glance
- Examines twenty illuminated manuscripts associated with medieval magic.
- Spans medieval Europe from the Carolingian Empire to Renaissance Italy and Tudor England.
- Discusses works including The Sworn Book of Honorius and the Picatrix.
Pros and cons
Pros
- The manuscript-led structure gives readers concrete historical sources rather than a broad, detached survey.
- The stated 368-page length supports a substantial treatment of the subject.
Technical specifications
8 specifications| Publisher | Yale University Press |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 11 Mar. 2025 |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 368 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0300244436 |
| ISBN-13 | 978-0300244434 |
| Dimensions | 16.26 x 3.81 x 23.62 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 972 g |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers interested in medieval magic, occult history and changing relationships between magic and science.
- Readers who value illustrated manuscript history and art.
Less suited to
- Readers seeking practical spell instructions or a general history of magic across all periods.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
63% 63% - 4 stars
24% 24% - 3 stars
13% 13% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
0% 0%
Aggregate ratings are generally positive, with most in the four- or five-star categories and some three-star ratings. Without written review feedback, these figures do not explain what readers liked or disliked, so they offer limited guidance on the book's depth, writing or illustrations.
Frequently asked questions
What does The Magic Books cover?
It explores medieval magic through twenty illuminated manuscripts and considers how attitudes to magic and science changed over time.
Which historical periods and places are included?
The publisher description spans the Carolingian Empire, Renaissance Italy and Tudor England.
Is this a practical guide to spells?
The supplied description presents it as an illustrated history of manuscripts and medieval beliefs, not a practical spell guide.
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