Customer Reviews

Spellcasters: Witches and Witchcraft in History, Folklore, and Popular Culture

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I admit that I bought it because my prof wrote it. She has done her research into the history and modernization of the craft in many cultures. She has consulted many pagans and puts forth a pretty unbias view. As a pagan myself, I have read many of the books in the bibliography and I found Pauline's to be informative to the well read and the not so well read. Give it a try, and tell me what you think.

Pauline Bartel's Spellcasters delves into the history and spirituality of witches, providing a history of witchcraft fabled and factual and covering both classic and contemporary witchcraft. From historical sources to modern mysticism and beliefs, Spellcasters presents true stories of rituals, events and history.

Great primer for the unenlightened. I purchased this book after taking a fascinating tour of Salem, Mass. and I think that it has been a perfect complement to the information I learned in Salem. Good, detailed accounts of the Inquisition (i.e., the Great European Witch Hunt) and the Salem Witch Trials. Excellent listing of historic and modern-day witches, wiccans, neo-pagans, etc. Non-judgmental insofar as the book balances its criticism of witch-hunters with the amount of credence it places on so-called "witch powers." Surpisingly well-researched and authoritative (on the historical background section) given the airy, unencumbered prose. You forget that you're reading a compilation of excellent research. The only flaw I could find is that the author insists on spelling out the plots of some "popular culture" pieces (like Harry Potter, Charmed, Sabrina the Teenage Witch, Rosemary's Baby, etc.) like a schoolmarm would read a story to her pupils. A bit uninspired in the end, but otherwise an interesting read.

I read this book during research for a novel and LOVED IT!!!

Examinations of witchcraft as represented in history, folklore, and pop culture. Lots of interesting information, and a good read.

From Author of "Script Magic: Subconscious Techniques to Conquer Writer's Block. I was spellbound by this book. Author Bartel presents her fascinating material in a voice rich with imagery yet with a scholarly accent. She's researched her subject well, and this book differentiates itself from its competitors in that its both fun and educational to read. Highly recommended!