Cunning Folk: Life in the Era of Practical Magic

Description

In medieval and early modern Europe, if you lost a precious item, or your child was sick, or you were facing a trial, or you were looking for love, you might turn for help to cunning folk: practitioners of “service magic.” Neither feared (like witches), nor venerated (like saints), they were essential to daily life. For people across ages, genders, and social ranks, practical magic was a cherished resource for navigating life’s many challenges.  A fascinating book, from Tabitha Stanmore, a specialist in medieval and early modern magic. (hardcover, 2024)

“Stanmore explores the premodern places where magic was real, offering not only practical solutions to ordinary problems but a way of feeling about the world: an emotional relationship between cosmic forces, anxious humans, and the mundane mysteries of their lives.” -Malcom Gaskill, author of The Ruin of All Witches

“The best introduction to late medieval and early modern popular magic yet written. Comprehensive, humane, lively, and a great read.” -Ronald Hutton, author of The Witch

$29.99