Magic in the Middle Ages (Canto) - Tapa blanda

'Richard Kieckhefer offers a panoramic view of a very diverse set of problems in his cogently organised and revealing book ... imaginative and stimulating ...'. Journal of Medieval History

'... a readable and lively book, whose particular strengths are its confidence and clarity in defining different sorts of magical activities, and the sharp illustrative details ... he deserves congratulations.' History

'The range of primary texts, often quoted from manuscript, and the coverage of secondary literature, in many languages, are impressive features. This is a valuable survey which few will read without learning something new.' The Times Higher Education Supplement

'... stands out amid the many speculative efforts which preceded it; it can be highly recommended as a concise and authoritative history of medieval magic.' Ambix

'This book can be highly recommended.' Medical History

' ... an excellent introduction to an interesting and expanding subject.' BBC History Magazine

How was magic practised in medieval times? How did it relate to the diverse beliefs and practices that characterised this fascinating period? In Magic in the Middle Ages Richard Kieckhefer surveys the growth and development of magic in medieval times. He examines its relation to religion, science, philosophy, art, literature and politics before introducing us to the different types of magic that were used, the kinds of people who practised magic, and the reasoning behind their beliefs. In addition, he shows how magic served as a point of contact between the popular and elite classes, how the reality of magical beliefs is reflected in the fiction of medieval literature, and how the persecution of magic and witchcraft led to changes in the law. This 2000 book places magic at the crossroads of medieval culture, shedding light on many other aspects of life in the middle ages.