Witchcraft history books are invaluable resources for those interested in the study and understanding of witchcraft throughout different time periods. These books provide a comprehensive look into the practices, beliefs, and persecution of witches throughout history, helping readers gain insight into the often misunderstood world of witches. One of the earliest and most well-known witchcraft history books is "Malleus Maleficarum" (The Hammer of Witches) by Heinrich Kramer and James Sprenger, published in 1487. This text became the standard manual for witch-hunting and greatly influenced the witchcraft trials and persecutions that occurred during the European witch-hunts of the 15th-18th centuries. It is a fascinating, yet disturbing, account of how fear and paranoia can drive societies to persecute innocent people. Another important witchcraft history book is "The Witch-Cult in Western Europe" by Margaret Murray, published in 1921.
Mundane everyday objects can become relics as well. For example, a comb used by a Buddhist monk becomes a relic upon his death and can be utilized as a means of testing individuals who are potentially the reincarnation of the deceased monk. Ancient Egyptians were masters at creating magical objects, using complex rituals to imbue them with power, these objects were often sent along with individuals on their journey into the afterlife. Scepters, jewelry, and weapons were some common artifacts that would be included in the tombs of Egyptian royalty. Objects play an important role in the religious traditions of humanity, satisfying an innate need to contain and control beneficial powers.
Relics are common in mystic religions especially those that are institutional in nature with a priestly caste that is responsible for preserving these relics. The path has been trod by other creative individuals who have went against traditional currents focusing on individual practice combining occult practice with art.
Another important witchcraft history book is "The Witch-Cult in Western Europe" by Margaret Murray, published in 1921. Murray was a prominent Egyptologist who believed that witchcraft was a surviving pagan religion and argued that the witch trials were actually a persecution of a secret witch cult. Although her theories have been widely criticized and debunked, her book sparked a renewed interest in witchcraft and influenced many subsequent studies on the subject.
Relics of Witch Power
Relic of the Holy Blood. Basilica of the Holy Blood. Wikimedia Creative Commons.
A reliquary traditionally contains sacred material usually organic matter from a deceased person important to followers of the religion to which it belongs. Generally a reliquary will contain bones, blood on fabric, and other fragmental remains of various priests and mystics. Holy relics can be found in most of the world’s religious traditions. Relics are common in mystic religions especially those that are institutional in nature with a priestly caste that is responsible for preserving these relics. Christianity, Buddhism, and Islam are just a few examples of religions that have numerous holy relics. These objects were often beloved items of the person that they belonged to or were everyday items used on a regular basis. Whether an important object or actual bodily remains the relic has absorbed some of the person’s essence and acts as a conduit to the individual. A relic can take many forms; from statues of saints with miracles attributed to them to holy books once owned by venerated clerics. Often the source of miracles, the relic is a magical object that has also accrued additional power over time. Through repeated ritual adoration and offerings common ritual tools and objects can become powerful totems. Some relics are meant to be experienced by many while others are secreted away quietly kept by a few individuals.
Mundane everyday objects can become relics as well. For example, a comb used by a Buddhist monk becomes a relic upon his death and can be utilized as a means of testing individuals who are potentially the reincarnation of the deceased monk. Ancient Egyptians were masters at creating magical objects, using complex rituals to imbue them with power, these objects were often sent along with individuals on their journey into the afterlife. Scepters, jewelry, and weapons were some common artifacts that would be included in the tombs of Egyptian royalty. Objects play an important role in the religious traditions of humanity, satisfying an innate need to contain and control beneficial powers.
Arcane Relics
Arcane Artifacts. Belladonna root, Hagstone, Crab Shell. Photo courtesy of author.
In magical traditions virtually any object has the potential to become a container for magical power. Many occult practices are centered around particular tools that are utilized in ritual. The grimoire traditions for example contain many extensive rituals that pertain to the preparation of magical objects. Some objects by their nature innately contain occult powers already, and need only be activated and directed by the individual. Pagan traditions both past and present view nature as sacred, and as a manifestation of the spirit world. All natural objects especially those once containing life force are seen as potentially magical due to their existing connections. It is a common belief in modern Paganism that there are energies, and/or entities residing in the land itself and its flora and fauna. In Natural Magic the arcane forces of nature are connected with and utilized for one’s benefit. The objects that become the tools and charms of this particular practice are often found out in the local environment.
In Pagan traditions, Nature is the source of the sacred and often artifacts that can be used as relics are hewn by the unseen hands of the forces of Nature. Botanical, mineral and biological curios can be obtained and utilized in one’s practice for added power and nuance. Whether it be a large stone carved into a usable shape by running water or a lightning struck tree used to fashion numerous charms and amulets, these arcane artifacts contain a potent energy for those who know how to use it. Spirits also present us with these objects as needed, things like animal remains, rock crystal and other found objects make their way to us to benefit our practice. Connecting to the spirit within these objects often leads to additional knowledge of its potential purpose and uses.
Arcane Relics can also be created using occult means; just like the rituals used to consecrate and dedicate ceremonial tools. However, these objects are differentiated from regular working tools by a number of possible factors. Instead of a single preparatory ritual these objects would have layers of charms and enchantments placed over them for specialized purposes. The arcane relic would also occupy a prominent place on the main altar or oftentimes its own shrine dedicated solely to the display and propitiation of the relic. Some of these objects based on their spirits and general purpose, if not prominently displayed, are stored in a secretive and occult way. The third way a relic of Witch Power can come to be is an offshoot of the first two ways. Whether created by human hands or spirit hands, this tertiary magical object is what most of us would usually think of as a relic. When a tool is used by a prominent individual in the tradition, if not interred with them upon their death, the object is often venerated and passed down within the tradition accruing more potency with each passing. For example, the ritual tools of Gerald Gardner are typical relics of British Traditional Witchcraft and its Wiccan offshoots. The scrying glass of John Dee is another quintessential example of a historic arcane relic. It is important to note that to be considered a relic in this sense; it is not imperative that the object belonged to a prominent practitioner of the magical arts. Certain objects are set aside by the spirits that inhabit them, and it is by their nature that they are set apart from the usual tools of arte.
Container, Conductor and Vessel
Altar Relic. Created by the author utilizing root, bone and stone.
There are few objects within the Craft that are used for purely utilitarian purposes. Each object is at least enchanted in some way or contains some kind of occult symbol or virtue; nothing is without meaning. When trying to distinguish this category of magical apparatuses from those that already exist and have been giving full explanations in many introductory books on the topic, what stands out is the way the objects are used. A relic is not something that is manipulated or “used” in ritual like a magical tool would be “used.” To put it simply we are not waving our relics around tracing pentagrams or magic circles with them. These are venerated occult objects that have been set apart, elevated in a sense, like our working tools are set apart from mundane tools. A relic has its place on the altar and its main purpose is to act as a catalyst for a desired effect. The effect being either passive, active, or mutable it is always long term in nature like a kind of familiar relationship. The passive sense of the effect is to act as a battery to absorb and contain energy that can be used at a later time for a desired purpose. The active effect it can have is the projection of a specific effect be it protection or illusion, through regular offerings the relic continues to have its desired effect after an initial programming ritual. This same ritual could then be utilized to create the mutable effect of the relic which would mean its inhabitation by a spirit or elemental force that would act as partner, protector and guide. It becomes mutable because the familiar spirit has a mind of its own and will communicate and act accordingly.
Arcane Artifice
Another component that allows us to differentiate a Witch’s Relic from a regular tool or charm is its individualized nature and creation by spirit arte. Whether inhabited by spirits or created in company of spirits under their instruction these objects take on Otherworldly qualities. In this sense, a Witch’s Relic can be any number of things. It is akin to combining a specialized charm or amulet with a ritual tool or alar piece. Tools and charms also have their specific uses, activated by ritual ceremony, a relic has a spirit of its own and has its effect simply by its presence alone. The relic itself it often the focal point or catalyst for the magical operation.
Depending on the form it takes a relic can be worn, oftentimes they are set upon an altar since they are larger than inconspicuously worn amulets. However smaller vials, phylacteries and reliquary lockets can contain these objects made from various material magica. Reliquary pendants are beautiful and have become popular over the past few years, offering a more permanent option to the charm bag. There is a synthesis of multiple components in the reliquary consisting of symbolic parts connected and contained in some way to have a desired effect. Ornate lockets and other special containers filled with the remains of a plant spirit familiar, the witch’s hair and other precious curios are often the contents of these wearable artifacts. The container and its contents connected by the sorcerous arte form a new synthesis that is the sum of its individual components.
Reliquary Pendants, created and photographed by the author.
More commonly are the Witch’s Relics found on an altar or shrine. These can take the form of altar pieces bringing together diverse energies to act as touchstones for occult power. Items such as the plant spirit homunculi which contains all of the preserved parts of one’s plant spirit familiar, prepared in a way that is dictated by the spirits themselves. The relic acts as a type of spirit vessel for the familiar spirit and can be adapted to encompass any type of tutelary or protective spirit. The homunculi can be called upon in various types of workings, and when prepared as a liquid tincture vessel can be incorporated into other formulas as well. Other types of altar relics are fashioned into spirit houses uses other means of artifice and alchemy, working these rites to create the vessel of the Witch’s Relic is initiatory in itself. Each relic contains its own story and its own mysteries.
Any object used in magic would be considered an artifact, especially in an anthropological sense of the word. Artifice is the ritual creation of these magical objects. The arcane art of artifice itself is in the creation of new magical apparatuses that serve as houses for spirits and other beings of the Otherworld. Relics of Witch Power are different from charms that need to be recharged regularly, and ritual tools that need to be cleansed. Once enlivened and all of the components are brought together offerings are made and the relic acts as a cumulative container of magical power. The relic evolves as it grows in power and age, its spirit may request the addition of other components to the artifact. Arcane Relics are usually unique to each practitioner. These artifacts created by human hands guided by occult spirits serve as touchstones to the spirit world and reflect the spirit of the Witch’s practice.
The Art of Artifice
Instead of using magical tools and other objects in their traditional ways, artifice combines them in new ways creating unique magical syntheses. A simple example would be taking hag stones and stringing them, hanging them from the tines of antlers creating a rustic mobile. You could then thread incense sticks and sprigs of certain herbs through the holes in the stones, creating and otherworldly image above the altar. Spirits are attracted to these manmade apparatuses.
Alternately, looking at objects and their existing connections in new ways can create additional layers of power. For instance, a crystal sphere, its shroud and sacred container could be enhanced and enshrined in a number of creative ways. Instead of treating them as separate components they become a sacred whole which can be treated in a ritualistic manner. The shroud and container connected through occult symbols and/or anointing rituals can be treated with the own sacred rites when covering and containing the crystal sphere.
The line between magical tools and relics of art can be blurred due to the many similarities they have, and they are often one and the same. A magical tool can become more relical in nature when it is no longer used on a regular, traditional basis, but retired and treated as an especially sacred object often passed down from one person to another. Creating magical tools using any traditional or ceremonial techniques is only the first step, adding additional rituals and dedicating these objects to certain spirits create an exceptionally sacred artifact.
Once the artifact is enshrined or stored in some arcane fashion it becomes a focal point of offerings meant to feed it and its spirits, granting the user occult power when called on for use. Objects created using complex operations laid out in traditional grimoires are relical in nature because when assembled correctly they tap into the traditional current of the objects origin. Following classical planetary timing and occult correspondence when fashioning occult artifacts is one of the first things taken into consideration. Typical objects of the witch’s arte are enhanced by the addition of charmed objects.
Woodland Spirit Relic. Created by the author.
Collecting twigs and bones from the forest floor while calling up chthonic spirits can be marked with runes and other symbols of arte and hung around one’s scrying bowl or cauldron to aid in peering through the veil and journeying to the Underworld. Alternately the cauldron itself can be transformed into a powerful Witch’s Relic. Instead of liquid, it is filled with objects of witch power, each object blessed and charmed as it is interred. It is filled completely and sealed shut becoming a vessel for the familiar spirit. It is placed upon the altar in a prominent place and is treated as a focal point for offerings, reminiscent of the nganga of diasporic traditions.
Witch’s Artifice is a highly individualized practice. The path has been trod by other creative individuals who have went against traditional currents focusing on individual practice combining occult practice with art. Today the ground is fertile for such practices to grow with increased access to the world’s mythological traditions that we can use to add to our own symbolic vocabulary.
Once the artifact is enshrined or stored in some arcane fashion it becomes a focal point of offerings meant to feed it and its spirits, granting the user occult power when called on for use. Objects created using complex operations laid out in traditional grimoires are relical in nature because when assembled correctly they tap into the traditional current of the objects origin. Following classical planetary timing and occult correspondence when fashioning occult artifacts is one of the first things taken into consideration. Typical objects of the witch’s arte are enhanced by the addition of charmed objects.
In more recent years, "Witchcraft Today" by Gerald Gardner, published in 1954, played a significant role in the revival of witchcraft as a modern religion known as Wicca. Gardner's book introduced the concept of Wicca and its practices, ultimately leading to the formation of numerous covens and the growth of Wiccan communities worldwide. Furthermore, "The Witch: A History of Fear, from Ancient Times to the Present" by Ronald Hutton, published in 2017, provides a comprehensive and scholarly account of the history of witchcraft. Hutton examines witchcraft beliefs and practices from ancient times to the present, exploring the social, cultural, and political factors that shaped these beliefs and the subsequent persecution of witches. Overall, witchcraft history books offer a unique perspective into the world of witchcraft, allowing readers to explore and understand the evolution of beliefs, practices, and societal attitudes towards witches throughout different periods of history. These books are essential resources for anyone interested in learning about this fascinating and often misrepresented topic..
Reviews for "Witchcraft in Literature: From Shakespeare to Rowling"
1. Emily - 2 stars: I was really disappointed with this book. I was expecting a comprehensive history of witchcraft, but instead, it felt like a disjointed collection of random facts. The information was not presented in a cohesive manner, and it was difficult to follow the author's train of thought. Additionally, the writing style was dry and boring, which made it even more challenging to stay engaged. Overall, I would not recommend this book to anyone looking for an in-depth exploration of witchcraft.
2. Mark - 1 star: I found this book to be extremely biased in its portrayal of witchcraft. The author seemed to rely heavily on stereotypes and misconceptions, painting a negative and inaccurate picture of witches. Moreover, the book lacked research and evidence to support its claims, making it feel more like a work of fiction than a historical account. I was hoping for a more objective and scholarly approach, but unfortunately, this book fell short.
3. Sarah - 2 stars: This book was a major letdown for me. Instead of providing a comprehensive history of witchcraft, it focused mostly on European witch trials and neglected to explore other cultures' beliefs and practices. The information presented was one-sided and failed to provide a holistic understanding of witchcraft throughout history. Furthermore, the author's writing style was dense and overly academic, making it challenging to stay engaged. I would not recommend this book to anyone seeking a well-rounded exploration of witchcraft.
4. Michael - 2 stars: I was expecting a thought-provoking and insightful book about witchcraft's historical significance, but unfortunately, this was not the case. The author seemed more interested in sensationalism than providing accurate information. There were numerous inaccuracies and misleading statements throughout the book, which significantly diminished its credibility. The lack of thorough research was evident, and I found myself questioning the validity of the author's claims. Overall, I was disappointed by this book and would not recommend it to others.