The Magic Books

Anne Lawrence-Mathers

£12.99


A fascinating and highly original history of medieval magic told through twenty key illuminated manuscripts Medieval Europe was preoccupied with magic. From the Carolingian Empire to Renaissance Italy and Tudor England, great rulers, religious figures, and scholars sought to harness supernatural power. They tried to summon spirits, predict the future, and even prolong life. Alongside science and religion, magic lay at the very heart of culture. In this beautifully illustrated account, Anne Lawrence-Mathers explores the medieval fascination with magic through twenty extraordinary illuminated manuscripts. These books were highly sought after, commissioned by kings and stored in great libraries. They include an astronomical compendium made for Charlemagne's son; The Sworn Book of Honorius, used by a secret society of trained magicians; and the highly influential Picatrix. This vivid new history shows how attitudes to magic and science


Author(s): Lawrence-Mathers, Anne
Binding: Paperback
Date of Publication: 03/07/2026
Pagination: 368 pages
Series: N/A
Imprint: Yale University Press
Published By: Yale University Press
Book Classification: Ancient, classical & medieval texts|Literary studies: ancient, classical & medieval|European history|History|Magic, alchemy & hermetic thought|Magic, spells & alchemy
Dimensions: 20
Weight:
ISBN13\EAN\SKU: 9780300297164

We offer a straightforward delivery charge:

  • £4.45 for orders under the value of £25
  • £6.00 for orders between £25 and £75
  • If your order exceeds £75, delivery is free.

Gift vouchers are treated slightly differently, sent via Signed Delivery at a cost of £2.77.