Encyclopedia of Magic and Alchemy

Interest in magic and sorcery has been rekindled in recent years due to the success of popular fiction and film such as the Harry Potter novels and The Lord of the Rings. With more than 500 entries, this fascinating A-to-Z reference explores the history of the Western magical and alchemical traditions, sorting history from myth and folklore and examining mystical beliefs through the ages. From the quest for the Philosopher's Stone to 20th-century wizards like Aleister Crowley to contemporary pagans and wiccans, the full range of Western magic and its influence on society is documented here. Topics covered include history, lore, famous people, philosophies, procedures, materials, rituals, and relationships to science.Guiley, Rosemary Ellen is the author of 'Encyclopedia of Magic and Alchemy' with ISBN 9780816060498 and ISBN 0816060495.