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.

Where do I start with this book? Woah! Firstly, although it is not set out that way; this is a handbook. This covers literally most if not ALL of the basics on would need to successfully practice magick. I have been studying magick for over 25 years and I wish I had known about this book years ago. Absolutely astounding. Packed with information for both the beginner and intermediate alike.

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 excellent One final word of warning, this is the same book as 'The Magical Arts'

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

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

a classic work and very readable

I originally purchased this book in 1972 so that I could have the title on my bookshelf as a little joke. Shortly thereafter I quit smoking and, substituting one habit for another, began to read voraciously. Cavendish was devoured in the ensuing feeding frenzy, poor fellow, and (Hey Presto!) the volume was considerably tastier than I had exepcted. _The Black Arts_ is light enough to entertain, and scholarly enough to satisfy. Consider it a survey course in the occult, with particular (but not exclusive) emphasis on the 19th Cenury social aspects. It provides insights into the likes of Yeates, Doyle and Eliot as well. Cavendish does not promote any of the traditions, but he does report them and he relates them to one another. I emerged from the book edified if not enchanted. Thereafter I pursued the casual hobby of collecting and reading Victorian and Edwardian occult classics - many of which were available in the same kind of bookstore where I found Cavendish. While not believeing any of the nonsense described, I was nevertheless (ahem!) charmed by those who did believe, and enjoyed their mad ravings. Alas, some decades later, a business associate recommended _Foucalt's Pendulum_ by Umberto Eco. Cavendish proved as much a prerequisite for Eco as Eco proved an antidote for Cavendish. The whole thing seems so decadent now, but then it was so enjoyable for so long. Ahh well... (Yawwwwwwwn!) I recommend this book. Just don't take it seriously. OK?

Teleurgesteld dat het boek beschadigd is aangekomen

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.

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

Fast delivery, wonderful book !