The Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft

Throughout the ages, witchcraft has often been feared and misunderstood, and Witches have often fallen victim to superstitious persecution. But the evil motives and dark powers ascribed by legend to practitioners of the Craft are hardly an accurate depiction of the true nature of the modern Wiccan movement.

Within these pages author Rosemary Ellen Guiley provides a remarkably detailed survey of the history of witchcraft in all its manifestations, from ancient times to the present. Paying special attention to the cultural an theological significance of of witchcraft, she traces its lineage from ancient pagan mythology to condemned sorcery to modern religion. Many of the entries revised and expanded for this new edition cast fresh light on the myths and misconceptions of the past, and extensive biographical entries profile the key figures in contemporary Witchcraft and their contributions to the movement.

Entries include:
• Margot Adler, the first author and journalist to chronicle the emergence of modern Paganism in the United States
• book of shadows, a Witch's book of beliefs, rituals, incantations and spells
• Aleister Crowley, the most controversial magician and occultist of his time
• demons, spiritual beings who dwell outside the physical world
• Goddess, the Great Mother who embodies the very essence of the Craft
• Salem Witches, the victims of a deadly witchcraft hysteria and witch-hunt that took place in Salem, Massachusetts, in 1692
• Starhawk, an American witch whose popular books have influenced thousands of readers regarding the Craft
• witch bottle, a charm used to protect against evil spirits and magical attack

With more than 500 entries and more than 100 illustrations, The Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft is the most current and complete reference on this fascinating subject, and an indispensable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the true nature of witchcraft.