A Guide to Magic, Witchcraft and the Paranormal: The Romance of Sorcery Rohmer, Sax

Name: A Guide to Magic, Witchcraft and the Paranormal: The Romance of Sorcery Rohmer, Sax
Price: 245.00 USD
Availability: InStock
Author: Rohmer, Sax
ISBN: 9780710307347

✍️ Rohmer, Sax

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📚 ABOUT THE BOOK

Unearth the hidden history of magic through the eyes of a master storyteller.

Step into the esoteric mind of Sax Rohmer, famously known for his Fu Manchu thrillers, as he unveils his singular non-fiction exploration into the world of magic. This long-sought-after volume, penned by an adept scholar of the mystic arts, offers a comprehensive journey from the earliest Egyptian sorcery to European witchcraft trials. Rohmer meticulously examines diverse traditions, from Islamic djinns and the wisdom of the Magi to various forms of divination and Brahminical magic. It's an accessible, sweeping overview designed to introduce the uninitiated to the profound and often misunderstood history of the paranormal.

Key themes

{'title': 'Global Arcana Throughout Ages', 'body': "Rohmer meticulously charts the evolution of magical practices across millennia and continents. From the ancient Nile's mystic rituals to the philosophical insights of the Magi and the intricate systems of Indian Brahmins, the book provides a panoramic view of humanity's enduring quest for arcane knowledge and its varied expressions across different cultures and eras."} {'title': 'Portraits of Noted Practitioners', 'body': 'Delve into the compelling narratives of pivotal figures who shaped the course of occult history. Rohmer brings to life the stories of legendary sorcerers and mystics like Apollonius of Tyana, the prophetic Nostradamus, the enigmatic Dr. John Dee, and the controversial Cagliostro, offering insights into their contributions and controversies within the magical tradition.'} {'title': 'Bridging Ancient Wisdom, Modernity', 'body': "At its core, this work aims to reconcile the ancient, revealed truths of esoteric traditions with the prevailing skepticism of the modern age. Rohmer advocates for a renewed understanding of these timeless principles, suggesting that despite advancements, humanity's spiritual and mystical inquiries remain deeply relevant in an increasingly secular world."}

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🏛 Routledge 📅 2005 📖 256 pages 📔 Hardcover 📐 Hardcover ISBN: 9780710307347

Fun fact

Rohmer's 'Romance of Sorcery' is a surprisingly engaging and accessible primer on the vast history of magic, a true hidden gem from an unexpected author. It excels at synthesizing complex historical information into a compelling narrative, making it ideal for beginners. However, advanced practitioners seeking deep dives into specific magical systems might find it too introductory. Its strength lies in its broad, appreciative overview and its unique perspective from a pulp fiction master, solidifying its place as a classic introductory text in occult studies.

📝 Description: A Guide to Magic, Witchcraft and the Paranormal: The Romance of Sorcery Rohmer, Sax

First published in 2005. The shadow side of Sax Rohmer is revealed in this long unobtainable volume; widely known as the author of the popular Fu Manchu books, he was also a dedicated scholar of the occult and an adept in the mystic arts. Written for the layman, his only non-fiction work is this guide to the realm of magic in its many forms, beginning with the birth of sorcery in ancient Egypt. The Moslem djinns, the sibylls, the philosophy of the Magi, modes of divination, and magic of the Brahmins are all examined, as are the manifestations of sorcery in Europe including witchcraft at the French royal court, and the infamous witch trials of Scotland. The stories of key figures such as Apollonius of Tyana, Nostradamus, Dr John Dee and Cagliostro are recounted in detail, and there is a comprehensive index from alchemy to zodiac. Rohmer aims to bridge the gulf that has opened as a result of modernity, between revealed religion and the ancient truths that need to be sought anew. There is no better general introduction to magic, sorcery and the paranormal.

⭐ Reader reviews

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⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.8/5

★★★★★

If you're a curious seeker or a seasoned occultist looking for an engaging historical overview of magic, sorcery, and the paranormal, this book is for you. It's an excellent starting point for understanding the diverse global tapestry of esoteric traditions, written with clarity and insight.

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❓ Frequently asked questions

This is Rohmer's sole venture into non-fiction, presenting a serious, scholarly overview of magic's history, traditions, and key figures, rather than a fictional narrative.

No, it serves as a comprehensive guide to the *history* and *philosophy* of magic and the paranormal, exploring various traditions without instructing on their practical application.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Global Arcana Throughout Ages

Rohmer meticulously charts the evolution of magical practices across millennia and continents. From the ancient Nile's mystic rituals to the philosophical insights of the Magi and the intricate systems of Indian Brahmins, the book provides a panoramic view of humanity's enduring quest for arcane knowledge and its varied expressions across different cultures and eras.

Portraits of Noted Practitioners

Delve into the compelling narratives of pivotal figures who shaped the course of occult history. Rohmer brings to life the stories of legendary sorcerers and mystics like Apollonius of Tyana, the prophetic Nostradamus, the enigmatic Dr. John Dee, and the controversial Cagliostro, offering insights into their contributions and controversies within the magical tradition.

Bridging Ancient Wisdom, Modernity

At its core, this work aims to reconcile the ancient, revealed truths of esoteric traditions with the prevailing skepticism of the modern age. Rohmer advocates for a renewed understanding of these timeless principles, suggesting that despite advancements, humanity's spiritual and mystical inquiries remain deeply relevant in an increasingly secular world.

💬 Quotes from the book

«From the sun-drenched temples of ancient Egypt, where priestly rites first hinted at hidden forces, to the shadowed chambers of medieval Europe, humanity has ceaselessly sought to commune with the unseen.»

«Modern skepticism often dismisses the whispers of ages past, yet within the narratives of figures like Apollonius or the revelations of the Magi, we find echoes of truths that resonate even now, urging us to look beyond the veil of the mundane.»

📜 Historical context

Published in 2005 but reflecting earlier scholarship, Rohmer's work stands out as the only non-fiction piece from an author celebrated for exotic thrillers. This unique perspective allows for an approachable yet erudite examination of occult history, bridging the gap between popular understanding and academic rigor. It places itself within a tradition of foundational surveys seeking to demystify complex esoteric subjects for a broader audience.

📚 Glossary

Sorcery
Djinns
Divination

📔 Questions to reflect on

Reflect on how modern scientific understanding has shaped or challenged your personal beliefs about the paranormal. Where do you find common ground or irreconcilable differences?
Consider one historical figure discussed in the book (e.g., Nostradamus, Cagliostro). How might their contributions or controversies resonate in today's esoteric landscape?
Rohmer suggests a 'gulf' between revealed religion and ancient truths. In what ways do you see this divide manifest in contemporary spirituality or occult practices?