This book is a very detailed history of magic and witchcraft, covering mentions of magicians and scorceresses back to the time of Greek and Roman mythology.
The book covers the evolution of the use of magic, from the time when magic was considered to be harmless charms and the use of healing herbs to devil worship and demonology wherein we get our familiar stereotypes of evil witches out to harm others.
The author also focuses on societal attitudes towards practictioners of magic, and how and why that has changed throughout the centuries. These were generally driven by the eventual wide-spread acceptance of Christianity and influenced by the belief of women as the weaker sex, emotional and susceptible to the influence of evil forces.
This was a very well-researched, academic recounting, full of facts and case studies, as well as ancient text references. Highly recommended for anyone wanting to learn more about the origins of magic and witchcraft.
