About the author
H. Stanley Redgrove (1887-1943) was an English chemist and writer whose research turned to the history of alchemy, numerology, and occult thought. His best-known book, Bygone Beliefs: Being a Series of Excursions in the Byways of Thought, first published in 1920, examines superstitions, talismans, and magical philosophy through the lens of a scientifically trained mind, treating folk and occult beliefs as subjects for historical inquiry rather than practice. The book has been reissued repeatedly over the past century, including recent editions from Cosimo Classics, Literary Licensing, and Obscure Press, a sign of its lasting place as an early scholarly survey of alchemy and magical thought in the English language. Redgrove's writing sits at the crossroads of the history of science and the history of the occult, and remains a reference point for readers tracing how earlier generations classified and argued about the supernatural.
📖 Where to start with H Stanley Redgrove
💬 What our editors say about H Stanley Redgrove's books
“Redgrove provides a meticulous examination of diverse spiritual systems, making this a compelling resource for history buffs and esoteric enthusiasts alike. The essays are engaging and well-researched, offering a clear window…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Bygone Beliefs: Being a Series of Excursions in the Byways of Thought
“Redgrove’s analysis is a refreshing departure from mystical obscurity, grounding esoteric practices in tangible historical rationale. However, this approach may disappoint readers seeking practical spell-casting instructions or…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Bygone Beliefs: Alchemy, Magic, Talismans, etc
“Redgrove’s work is a dense, uncompromising survey that demands attention from its reader. While it successfully resurrects the rational logic buried beneath centuries of occult practice, it is not for those seeking light…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Bygone Beliefs: Alchemy, Magic, Talismans, etc
📋 Editions by H Stanley Redgrove in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bygone Beliefs: Being a Series of Excursions in the Byways of Th | 2014 | Literary Licensing, LLC | 282 | 9781498012041 |
| Bygone Beliefs: Alchemy, Magic, Talismans, etc | 2008 | Obscure Press | 288 | 9781443738590 |
| Bygone Beliefs: Alchemy, Magic, Talismans, etc | — | Obscure Press | 284 | 9781846641015 |
| Bygone Beliefs | 2015 | Createspace Independent Pu | 134 | 9781508504085 |
| Bygone Beliefs Redgrove, H Stanley | — | Cosimo Classics | 288 | 9781596050266 |
