| Description |
1 online resource (413 pages). |
| Series |
Daniel Defoe anthology |
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Daniel Defoe anthology.
|
|
BiblioBoard Core module.
|
| Note |
Frontispiece engraved by Van der Gucht after Eberlain. |
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Page 253 misnumbered 235. |
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Original document: Book. |
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GMD: electronic resource. |
| Contents |
I. the original of Magicians; and how some of them were made kings, as Zoraster, Cadmus, and many others. II. How the ancient Magi, who study'd philosophy, astronomy, &c. were induc'd to turn Wizards and Sorcerers, and deal with the Devil; and how their conversation began. III. The different shapes assum'd by the Devil in his first appearances to Magicians; and whether he is, or has been, allow'd to assume a human-shape. IV. Who first practiced Magick as a diabolical art, and its progress among the Egyptians and Phnecians; by whom it was First openly encourag'd, and of its Present state. V. What the Black-art, really is, the various manner of its practice in different parts of the world, and of the Doctrine of spirits. VI. How far it may be suppos'd there can be an intercourse between Superior and Infernal beings, and whether the Magick-art now subsists. VII. How far the Devil may be raised by Magical operations; and whether it is by their own power, or by mutual concert with the Devil. |
| Summary |
Attributed to 18th-century author Daniel Defoe, this book gives a history of the magical arts and overviews of various magicians. If anyone reads this book looking for rules or instructions on how to practice magic, they will be disappointed. Instead, this book gives a history of magical practices from ancient times to Defoe's day. In Defoe's view, all magic involves varying degrees of demonic influence, and the book examines various ways magic practitioners entreat the devil's aid. |
| Subject |
Magic -- History.
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| Added Title |
History of the black-art |
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