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Religion and the Decline of Magic: Studies in popular beliefs in sixteenth and seventeenth century England,Used
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Astrology, witchcraft, magical healing, divination, ancient prophecies, ghosts, and fairies were taken very seriously by people at all social and economic levels in sixteenth and seventeenthcentury England. Helplessness in the face of disease and human disaster helped to perpetuate this belief in magic and the supernatural. As Keith Thomas shows, England during these years resembled in many ways today's "underdeveloped areas." The English population was exceedingly liable to pain, sickness, and premature death; many were illiterate; epidemics such as the bubonic plague plowed through English towns, at times cutting the number of London's inhabitants by a sixth; fire was a constant threat; the food supply was precarious; and for most diseases there was no effective medical remedy.In this fascinating and detailed book, Keith Thomas shows how magic, like the medieval Church, offered an explanation for misfortune and a means of redress in times of adversity. The supernatural thus had its own practical utility in daily life. Some forms of magic were challenged by the Protestant Reformation, but only with the increased search for scientific explanation of the universe did the English people begin to abandon their recourse to the supernatural.Science and technology have made us less vulnerable to some of the hazards which confronted the people of the past. Yet Religion and the Decline of Magic concludes that "if magic is defined as the employment of ineffective techniques to allay anxiety when effective ones are not available, then we must recognize that no society will ever be free from it."
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- Q: What is the page count of this book? A: This book has seven hundred sixteen pages. It provides an in-depth exploration of popular beliefs in sixteenth and seventeenth-century England.
- Q: What are the dimensions of this book? A: The book measures six point six one inches in length, one point five seven inches in width, and nine point two five inches in height. These dimensions make it a standard-sized paperback.
- Q: What type of binding does this book have? A: This book is bound as a paperback. This type of binding is flexible and lightweight, making it easy to handle.
- Q: How do I read this book? A: You can read this book by simply opening it and following the text from the beginning to the end. It's suitable for anyone interested in historical beliefs and practices.
- Q: Is this book suitable for children? A: No, this book is not specifically aimed at children. It discusses complex themes related to magic and religion in historical contexts.
- Q: What is the reading level of this book? A: The reading level is appropriate for adults and advanced high school students. It contains historical references and analyses that may require prior knowledge.
- Q: How should I store this book? A: Store this book in a cool, dry place on a shelf to keep it in good condition. Avoid exposure to direct sunlight to prevent fading.
- Q: Can I clean the book if it gets dirty? A: Yes, you can gently wipe the cover with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using water or cleaning solutions, as they may damage the pages.
- Q: What if the book arrives damaged? A: If the book arrives damaged, contact the seller for return instructions. Most sellers offer a return or exchange policy for damaged items.
- Q: Is there a warranty for this book? A: No, books typically do not come with a warranty. However, most retailers offer a return policy for unsatisfactory items.
- Q: How does this book compare to other historical texts? A: This book offers a unique perspective on magic and religion during the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, unlike many other historical texts that may focus solely on political events.
- Q: Is this book suitable for academic study? A: Yes, this book is suitable for academic study. It includes extensive research and references, making it a valuable resource for students of history.
- Q: What themes are explored in this book? A: The book explores themes of astrology, witchcraft, and the supernatural in relation to societal beliefs in historical England. It examines how these beliefs influenced daily life.
- Q: Can this book be used for a research project? A: Yes, this book can be used for a research project. It provides detailed insights and references that can support various academic arguments.
- Q: Does this book include illustrations or images? A: No, this book does not include illustrations or images. It focuses on text-based analysis and historical context.