The History of Magic : From Alchemy to Witchcraft, from the Ice Age to the Present

In this Telegraph Book of the Year, Professor Chris Gosden presents an extraordinary, unprecedented exploration of magic's role in human culture, from antiquity to the present day. This captivating journey spans from the earliest known horoscope to the mystical power of tattoos, offering a fresh perspective on a often misunderstood subject.

Gosden posits that whilst science, religion, and magic form the triumvirate of human belief systems, magic - our perceived connection to the cosmos - has unfairly garnered a dubious reputation. Yet, it has been an integral part of human existence for millennia, manifesting in various forms: from the spells and charms of Greco-Roman and Jewish traditions, to the shamanistic practices of Eurasia, indigenous America and Africa, and even in the realm of modern quantum physics.

Despite its controversial status, magic continues to hold sway over contemporary society, with a staggering 75% of Westerners maintaining some form of magical belief, be it wishbone-snapping, lottery ticket purchases, or the anthropomorphisation of inanimate objects.

Drawing upon decades of meticulous research, Gosden presents a comprehensive, authoritative history of human thought, elucidating magic's pivotal role in shaping civilisation. Moreover, he proposes that magic could offer a novel lens through which to reexamine our understanding of the world.

This remarkable work, praised as 'fascinating, original, excellent' by Simon Sebag Montefiore, is more than just a historical account. It's an invitation to reconsider the nature of our relationship with the universe, making it an essential read for anyone intrigued by the enigmatic threads that weave through human history.

Product Information:

Book ISBN:	9780241979662
Book Author:	Chris Gosden
Book Format:	Paperback / softback
Book Imprint:	Penguin Books Ltd
Book Publisher:	Penguin Books Ltd
Book Dimensions:	129 x 196 x 35 cm
Book Publication Date:	2021-05-20
Book Pagination:	512 pages
Book Weight:	402g