Religion and the Decline of Magic

Explore the fascinating intersection of faith and folklore in Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas, published in 2003. This comprehensive work spans 880 pages, delving into the vibrant world of witchcraft, astrology, divination, and popular magic that thrived in England during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Thomas offers a meticulous analysis of the beliefs that permeated various strata of English society, tracing the profound transformation that occurred from the collapse of the medieval Church to the evolving intellectual landscape around 1700. This book is an essential read for anyone interested in British and Irish history, the history of ideas, and the intricate relationship between religion and magic. Discover how these elements shaped the cultural fabric of the time and influenced contemporary thought.