About the author
Peter Maxwell-Stuart is a historian associated with the University of St Andrews who specializes in the history of witchcraft, magic and the occult in early modern Europe. He is known for his translations of major primary sources in the field, including his edition of The Malleus Maleficarum, the 1487 witch-hunting treatise, published by Manchester University Press, which he renders into accessible English while situating the text within the mindset of its author. His translation of Martin del Rio's Investigations Into Magic makes available in English one of the most comprehensive early modern discussions of occult sciences, a text previously accessible mainly to specialists reading Latin. Maxwell-Stuart's work sits at the scholarly end of witchcraft studies, combining close philological translation with introductions and notes that explain the theological and legal context behind these historical documents, and his books are used primarily by students and researchers of early modern religion, law and the history of magic.
📖 Where to start with Peter Maxwell-Stuart
💬 What our editors say about Peter Maxwell-Stuart's books
“This translation offers a stark, unflinching look at the mechanisms of medieval persecution, making it a vital resource for academic and serious historical inquiry. However, readers seeking comfort, spiritual guidance, or…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on The Malleus Maleficarum
“This volume provides a stark, unmediated look at one of history’s most infamous manuals for persecution. While it offers unparalleled access to the original treatise’s dry argumentation and illustrative anecdotes, it is not…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on The Malleus Maleficarum
“This landmark volume is a rigorous academic contribution, offering an exhaustive inquiry into the occult through Martin del Rio’s eyes. Maxwell-Stuart contextualizes this primary source effectively, detailing the legal frameworks…”
Esoterica Books editorial team, Occult literature desk · on Martin del Rio: Investigations Into Magic - Ingram Academic Maxwell-Stuart, Peter
📋 Editions by Peter Maxwell-Stuart in the catalog
| Edition | Year | Publisher | Pages | ISBN |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Malleus Maleficarum | 2024 | Manchester University Pres | 288 | 9781526181473 |
| The Malleus Maleficarum | — | Manchester University Pres | 288 | 9780719064432 |
| Martin del Rio: Investigations Into Magic - Ingram Academic Maxw | — | Manchester University Pres | 304 | 9780719080531 |
