About the author
Jay Johnston writes on the history and theory of esoteric practice, with books published by Cambridge University Press and Routledge. Amulets in Magical Practice (2024), part of Cambridge's Elements series, examines the production and use of amulets made from stone, gemstone, and animal materials that carry little or no text, focusing on their material rather than textual meaning. Angels of Desire: Esoteric Bodies, Aesthetics and Ethics (2009) looks at the concept of the subtle body across various esoteric traditions and how it challenges standard mind-body and matter-spirit divisions in Western thought. Johnston's work is scholarly in register, addressing the material culture and philosophy of esoteric belief rather than offering guidance for practitioners, and suits readers interested in the academic study of magic and the body.
📖 Where to start with Jay Johnston
💬 What our editors say about Jay Johnston's books
“Johnston delivers a rigorous examination of the subtle body, successfully weaving together diverse esoteric traditions to challenge Western dualisms. The text is intellectually dense, offering significant contributions to…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Angels of Desire: Esoteric Bodies, Aesthetics and Ethics Johnston, Jay
“Jay Johnston offers a rigorous academic dissection of amulets derived from natural materials, appealing to those interested in the ontology of magical objects. However, this volume may not suit readers looking for practical…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Amulets in Magical Practice Johnston, Jay
“Johnston provides a dense, scholarly exploration of subtle bodies across multiple esoteric traditions, effectively dismantling materialist assumptions about embodiment. While intellectually robust for those versed in comparative…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Angels of Desire: Esoteric Bodies, Aesthetics and Ethics Johnston, Jay
📋 Editions by Jay Johnston in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angels of Desire: Esoteric Bodies, Aesthetics and Ethics Johnsto | — | Routledge | 320 | 9781845533076 |
| Amulets in Magical Practice Johnston, Jay | 2024 | Cambridge University Press | 80 | 9781108948791 |
| Angels of Desire: Esoteric Bodies, Aesthetics and Ethics Johnsto | 2009 | Routledge | 320 | 9781845533083 |
| Amulets in Magical Practice Johnston, Jay | 2024 | Cambridge University Press | 80 | 9781009517799 |
