The Black Arts (50th Anniversary Edition): A Concise History of Witchcraft, Demonology, Astrology, Alchemy, and Other Mystical Practices Throughout ... Practices Throughout the Ages (Perigee)

I bought this for research, but was surprised to find it's a very engrossing read. If you're looking for a book that will provide understanding of witchcraft through the ages, the whys and hows, then I would recommend this book. I don't know how practical it would be for someone who wanted to try to DO the things in the book, but for research and educational purposes, it's very well done. It does show a very particular view of witchcraft which doesn't mesh with some of the wicca practitioners I've known personally, but as with any belief system, there can be variations from one group of adherents to another.Well written. The best reference I've found on the subject so far.

This book is a great introduction to the various "black arts" giving detailed accounts of the various beliefs, without being too long-winded.

Best occult book for intermediates who have a bit of knowledge on the matter

I had to by this last minute for a friend's birthday as their original gift still hasn't arrived yet, (The birthday was at the start of April) It went down a treat. It came much quicker than I expected it to, and was in wonderful condition. My friend loved it and finds it extremely interesting. I would definitely recommend this to anyone.

If you are interested in witchcraft or magic, you will want to read this book. The parts I found most interesting was the first chapters, which give a theory of magic, and the latter chapters about witchcraft and Satanism, and for me these made the book worth reading by themselves. The others chapters about Astrology, Numerology, etc I wasn't too fussed with, others might appreciate them more.A previous reviewer said that practicing witches should beware because it conflates witchcraft and Satanism. Not quite - The Black Arts presents the traditional view of European witchcraft, and discusses the witch trials, where of course those accused of witchcraft were believed to be in league with the Devil.Modern witches must be aware of this, and must also be aware that their current beliefs are a reinterpretation of traditional witchcraft, and whether or not traditional witchcraft had anything to do with Satan, they were certainly believed to be his followers.In short this book gives an excellent summary of European withcraft and magic. I've taken it down 1 star because I personally wasn't that interested in the middle chapters. Even still, I found it excellentOne final word of warning, this is the same book as 'The Magical Arts'

a classic work and very readable

Just like it was when I used it 45 years ago. Glad the book is still in print. 5 Points

Thought it was a well rounded, interesting take on some of histories darkest subject. Unbiased and told both sides of the story... I would recommend this book for anyone who is interested about learning about a whole new subject matter!

I bought this book and didn't realize till later that I already had this book. But it is really informative and really good interesting facts in it. It was a really good book to read.

Este libro es una gran introducción a las prácticas mágicas/ocultas y ofrece un compendio de fuentes y material si quieres adentrarte en algún tema específico. El autor permanece siempre imparcial en sus descripciones y ofrece un recuento histórico harto interesante de las distintas corrientes. Buena lectura, recomendado.

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Bom livro para quem quer começar no assunto. Design lindo.

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