Cursed Britain : A History of Witchcraft and Black Magic in Modern Times by Thomas Waters

The definitive history of how witchcraft and black magic have survived, through the modern era and into the present day

Cursed Britain unveils the enduring power of witchcraft, curses and black magic in modern times. Few topics are so secretive or controversial. Yet, whether in the 1800s or the early 2000s, when disasters struck or personal misfortunes mounted, many Britons found themselves believing in things they had previously dismissed – dark supernatural forces.

Historian Thomas Waters here explores the lives of cursed or bewitched people, along with the witches and witch-busters who helped and harmed them. Waters takes us on a fascinating journey from Scottish islands to the folklore-rich West Country, from the immense territories of the British Empire to metropolitan London. We learn why magic caters to deep-seated human needs but see how it can also be abused, and discover how witchcraft survives by evolving and changing.

Along the way, we examine an array of remarkable beliefs and rituals, from traditional folk magic to diverse spiritualities originating in Africa and Asia. This is a tale of cynical quacks and sincere magical healers, depressed people and furious vigilantes, innocent victims and rogues who claimed to possess evil abilities. Their spellbinding stories raise important questions about the state’s role in regulating radical spiritualities, the fragility of secularism and the true nature of magic.

• Format:Paperback / softback 360 pages, 20 color illus. + 3 maps
  Publisher:Yale University Press
  Imprint:Yale University Press
  ISBN:9780300254778
  Published:25 Aug 2020
  Classifications:United Kingdom, Great Britain, c 1700 to c 1800, General & world history, British & Irish history, Modern history to 20th century: c 1700 to c 1900, Occult studies, Mysticism, magic & ritual
  Weight:338g