Witchcraft and Sorcery: Selected Readings; Second Edition

Witchcraft and Sorcery: Selected Readings; Second Edition by Max Marwick, published by Penguin Books on September 20, 1990, offers a comprehensive exploration of witchcraft from various perspectives. This 496-page collection presents a diverse range of readings that illuminate the current worldwide status of witchcraft, featuring insights from classic studies and ethnographic accounts. The book is presented in English and is designed to engage readers with its multifaceted approach to a complex subject.

Readers will find that the collection is organized into five parts, each addressing different aspects of witchcraft. The first part examines various approaches to the topic, including an extract from a classic study of the Azande. Subsequent sections delve into the rich ethnography of witchcraft, discussing historical events such as the European and Salem witch-hunts, as well as theories that link witchcraft and cultist movements to social strain. The later parts focus on the urbanization of modern witchcraft and the implications of witch beliefs on broader societal issues. This edition serves as a valuable resource for those interested in understanding the complexities of witchcraft and its relevance in contemporary discussions.