Magic and Medieval Society presents a thematic approach to the topic of magic and sorcery in Western Europe between the eleventh and the fifteenth century. It aims to provide readers with the conceptual and documentary tools to reach informed conclusions as to the existence, nature, importance and uses of magic in medieval society. Contrary to some previous approaches, the authors argue that magic is inextricably connected to other areas of cultural practice and was found across medieval society. Therefore, the book is arranged thematically, covering topics such as the use of magic at medieval courts, at universities and within the medieval Church itself. Each chapter and theme is supported by additional documents, diagrams and images to allow readers to examine the evidence side-by-side with the discussions in the chapters and to come to informed conclusions on the issues. This book puts forward the argument that the witch craze was not a medieval phenomenon but rather the product of the Renaissance and the Reformation, and demonstrates how the components for the early-modern prosecution of witches were put into place. This new Seminar Study is supported by a comprehensive documents section, chronology, who’s who and black-and-white plate section. It offers a concise and thought-provoking introduction for students of medieval history.

The Routledge History of Medieval Magic brings together the work of scholars from across Europe and North America to provide extensive insights into recent developments in the study of medieval magic between c.1100 and c.1500. This book covers a wide range of topics, including the magical texts which circulated in medieval Europe, the attitudes of intellectuals and churchmen to magic, the ways in which magic intersected with other aspects of medieval culture, and the early witch trials of the fifteenth century. In doing so, it offers the reader a detailed look at the impact that magic had within medieval society, such as its relationship to gender roles, natural philosophy, and courtly culture. This is furthered by the book’s interdisciplinary approach, containing chapters dedicated to archaeology, literature, music, and visual culture, as well as texts and manuscripts. The Routledge History of Medieval Magic also outlines how research on this subject could develop in the future, highlighting under-explored subjects, unpublished sources, and new approaches to the topic. It is the ideal book for both established scholars and students of medieval magic.

Argues the case for the individual as autonomous moral agent in the later Middle Ages.

It is an attempt to capture a more comprehensive view of medieval Spain's perceptions of magical practice in order to determine why Spain did not explode into Witchcraze, as occurred in so many other European regions when the Middle Ages slipped into the Renaissance."

D20 role-playing game supplement. Allows role-playing in a pseudo-medieval environment.

A History of Science, Magic and Belief is an exploration of the origins of modern society through the culture of the middle ages and early modern period. By examining the intertwined paths of three different systems for interpreting the world, it seeks to create a narrative which culminates in the birth of modernity. It looks at the tensions and boundaries between science and magic throughout the middle ages and how they were affected by elite efforts to rationalise society, often through religion. The witch-crazes of the sixteenth and seventeenth century are seen as a pivotal point, and the emergence from these into social peace is deemed possible due to the Scientific Revolution and the politics of the early modern state. This book is unique in drawing together the histories of science, magic and religion. It is thus an ideal book for those studying any or all of these topics, and with its broad time frame, it is also suitable for students of the history of Europe or Western civilisation in general.

"The Magic of the Middle Ages" by Viktor Rydberg is an illuminating exploration of the mystical beliefs, practices, and cultural phenomena that characterized the medieval period. Published in the late 19th century, Rydberg's work remains a cornerstone in the study of medieval mysticism and folklore. In this comprehensive volume, Rydberg delves into the various forms of magic and superstition that pervaded medieval society, from the arcane rituals of alchemy to the beliefs in witchcraft, astrology, and the occult. Drawing upon historical records, religious texts, and literary sources, he provides a rich tapestry of anecdotes and insights into the enchanting world of medieval magic. Rydberg's analysis goes beyond mere description; he explores the social, cultural, and psychological dimensions of magic, shedding light on its role in shaping the medieval worldview. He examines the influence of ancient mystical traditions, the interactions between Christianity and pagan beliefs, and the ways in which magic served as a means of understanding and navigating the uncertainties of life. One of the central themes of the book is the tension between reason and superstition, faith and skepticism. Rydberg acknowledges the prevalence of magical beliefs in medieval society while also critically examining their origins and implications. He delves into the motivations behind magical practices, the power dynamics at play, and the ways in which magic intersected with broader cultural and religious movements. "The Magic of the Middle Ages" is both a scholarly inquiry and a captivating narrative, offering readers a glimpse into a world where the boundaries between the natural and supernatural were blurred. Rydberg's prose is engaging and accessible, making this book suitable for both academic study and casual reading. Whether you're a historian, a student of folklore, or simply fascinated by the mysteries of the past, "The Magic of the Middle Ages" provides a compelling window into a bygone era of enchantment and wonder. Join Viktor Rydberg on a journey through the realms of medieval magic and superstition, and discover the enduring allure of the mystical in human history.

This is a study of magic in Western Europe in the early Middle Ages. Valerie Flint explores its practice and belief in Christian society, and examines the problems raised by so-called pagan survivals and superstition. She unravels the complex processes at work in the early medieval Christian church to show how the rejection of non-Christian magic came to be tempered by a more accommodating attitude: confrontation was replaced by negotiation, and certain practices previously condemned were not merely accepted, but actively encouraged. The forms of magic which were retained, as well as those the Church set out to obliterate, are analyzed. The superstitions condemned at the Reformation are shown to be, in origin, rational and intelligent concessions intended to reconcile coexisting cultures.

This book examines the roles of magic in medieval romance. Magic's crucial function in the romances may be established by studying the diverse works of Chrétien de Troyes, the Lais of Marie de France, the romances of Sir Tristrem, Syr Launfal, Ywain & Gawain and Chaucer's The Franklin's Tale. Romance authors used magical trials to explore a character' moral status and position on issues important to the community, such as when to maintain loyalty to a king or to a lover. Romance authors were able to encourage the exploration of human motivation by using magic to create, or expose a character' morally ambiguous situation. This technique enabled a broader discussion of social issues than would have been allowed in situations constrained by the boundaries of Christian dogmatism. In order to understand the function of magic in medieval romance, it is necessary to appreciate its function in the medieval world. Magic is coupled to some of the most important works of the medieval age, such as the theological texts of Augustine and Aquinas, the histories of Geoffrey of Monmouth and Wace, as well playing a significant role in medicine and the nascent studies of science. Romance writers capitalised upon the associations between magic and these fields of study to create a more serious framework for their texts. The romances could then operate beyond the level of simple entertainment and provide the interested audience with social commentary, moral analysis and material for thought on a wide variety of issues.