Magic: The Basics is a concise and engaging introduction to magic in world history and contemporary societies. Presenting magic as a global phenomenon which has manifested in all human cultures. this book takes a thematic approach which explores the historical. social. and cultural aspects of magic.
Key features include:
attempts to define magic either in universal or more particular terms. and to contrast it with other broad and potentially fluid categories such as religion and science;
an examination of different forms of magical practice and the purposes for which magic has been used;
debates about magic’s effectiveness. its reality. and its morality;
an exploration of magic’s association with certain social factors. such as gender. ethnicity and education. among others.
Offering a global perspective of magic from antiquity through to the modern era and including a glossary of key terms. suggestions for further reading and case studies throughout. Magic: The Basics is essential reading for anyone seeking to learn more about the academic study of magic.
