The Magic Books : A History of Enchantment in 20 Medieval Manuscripts by Anne Lawrence-Mathers

A fascinating and highly original history of medieval magic told through twenty key illuminated manuscripts   Medieval Europe was preoccupied with magic. From the Carolingian Empire to Renaissance Italy and Tudor England, great rulers, religious figures, and scholars sought to harness supernatural power. They tried to summon spirits, predict the future, and even prolong life.

Alongside science and religion, magic lay at the very heart of culture.   In this beautifully illustrated account, Anne Lawrence-Mathers explores the medieval fascination with magic through twenty extraordinary illuminated manuscripts. These books were highly sought after, commissioned by kings and stored in great libraries.

They include an astronomical compendium made for Charlemagne’s son; The Sworn Book of Honorius, used by a secret society of trained magicians; and the highly influential Picatrix. This vivid new history shows how attitudes to magic and science changed over the medieval period—and produced great works of art as they did so.

Format:Paperback / softback 368 pages, 66 color illus.
Publisher:Yale University Press
Imprint:Yale University Press
ISBN:9780300297164
Published:3 Jul 2026
Classifications:Classical texts, Literary studies: classical, early & medieval, European history, Medieval history, Magic, alchemy & hermetic thought, Magic, spells & alchemy