Description:
A clear, concise overview of the origins and history of the Wiccan and Neopagan movements, with A-Z coverage of concepts, rituals, practices, and practitioners.
Witchcraft Today presents a concise survey of this fascinating movement, charts its development, and offers A-Z coverage of Neopagan concepts, rituals, practices, and practitioners ranging from African Religions and Celtic Tradition to Numerology and Theosophy. An excellent and thorough introduction that explains the origin and history of contemporary Wiccan and Neopagan beliefs and a chronology detail the development of these modern religions. A documents section reprints texts important to the central belief system of Wiccans and Neopagans, including the text of Charge of the Goddess, and a bibliography and index complete this timely source. Consult this work whether you need to know the characteristics of Wicca; the difference between Celtic, Alexandrian, and Blue Star traditions; the meaning of "skyclad;" the work of Emanuel Swedenborg; or the origins of Tarot.Brief description: James R. Lewis, Ph.D., is adjunct assistant professor in the Philosophy Department at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI. His published works include ABC-CLIO's Witchcraft Today and Satanism Today.
Review Quotes:
"This book is a well researched tool that will be helpful to anyone researching Wiccan or Neopagan traditions. Its definitions are extremeley thorough and the information on the religion's history will be useful to both students and laypersons alike." --American Reference Books Annual
"An excellent resource on the contemporary practice of witchcraft and on the ancient traditions that inspired it. Recommended for public and academic libraries." --Library Journal "...Recommended for public and all academic libraries." --Colorado Libraries