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An Encyclopaedia of Occultism — Witchcraft Wicca

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An Encyclopaedia of Occultism

Name: An Encyclopaedia of Occultism
Price: 20.99 USD
Availability: InStock
Author: Spence, Lewis
ISBN: 9781596052376

✍️ Spence, Lewis

Reader Score

4.5

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📚 WHAT THE BOOK IS ABOUT

A 1920 encyclopedic reference containing 2,500 entries on occultism, demonology, spiritism, and folklore.

This reference volume provides an alphabetical collection of historical concepts, figures, and phenomena across mystical traditions. Lewis Spence documents topics ranging from Freemasonry and Morgan le Fay to specialized subjects in psychic science and ancient calendars. The text functions as a historical record of how folklore, mythology, and magical studies were categorized in the early twentieth century. It offers detailed cross references for researchers examining demonology, spiritism, and the history of scientific thought.

Key Themes

demonology and spiritism occult personalities and history psychic science and mythology

Literary Context

First published in 1920, this reference work reflects early twentieth century anthropological interest in mythology and the occult. Authored by a Fellow of the Royal Anthropological Institute, it organizes global folkloric traditions and mystical concepts into a formal reference volume.

Spence, Lewis

📚 all books by this author (8) →

Difficulty

●● Medium

Recommended For Fans Of

Arthur Edward Waite · Aleister Crowley · The Golden Dawn · Occult History Anthologies

🌙

Witchcraft & Wicca

🏛 Cosimo Classics 📅 2006 📖 456 pages 📔 Paperback 📐 Paperback ISBN: 9781596052376

Fun Fact

Spence’s Encyclopaedia is an enduring masterpiece, delivering unparalleled breadth and historical detail. Its dictionary format makes it incredibly user-friendly for quick reference and deep dives. Those seeking deep philosophical analysis or practical ritual instruction will find its encyclopedic nature a limitation, as it prioritizes breadth over exhaustive depth. However, as a foundational reference for the history of occult thought, it remains a monumental and indispensable work.

📝 Description: An Encyclopaedia of Occultism

Originally published in 1920, this compendium gathers 2,500 dictionary entries covering demonology, psychic science, occult personalities, spiritism, and mysticism. Scottish folklorist Lewis Spence structures the material alphabetically, beginning with Ab, an ancient Semitic calendar month, and concluding with Zulu witch finders. Throughout 456 pages, the entries explore widespread subjects alongside obscure historical figures, including Italian aristocrat Leonora Galigai and concepts such as palingenesy—the process of destroying and resurrecting plants. Spence brought notable academic credentials to this volume as a Fellow representing the Royal Anthropological Institute of Great Britain and Ireland. He also served as Vice President of the Scottish Anthropological and Folklore Society and authored over 40 books on mythology and occult studies, including History of Atlantis. His entries synthesize historical accounts, folkloric traditions, and occult lore to trace the development of scientific thought and mythological beliefs. This Cosimo Classics paperback edition suits researchers, mythology students, and readers looking for a structured reference text on early twentieth century occult studies. It does not suit readers seeking a step-by-step instructional guide for modern practical magic, as it functions strictly as an encyclopedic overview of occult history.

💎 Expert review

“

💎

Esoterica Books editorial team

Occult literature desk

While this compendium stands as a monumental guide to the varied landscape of the occult, it is not suited for those seeking practical spell-casting instructions or immediate ritualistic application. Readers looking for contemporary Wiccan liturgy may find its focus on historical figures and ancient rites too academic. However, for anyone interested in the scholarly rigor behind arcane personalities and concepts like palingenesy, it remains an unparalleled resource that blends fascination with meticulous research.

✓ EDITOR'S REVIEW

📖 Why choose it

📖

Why this book is worth reading

Casual enthusiasts and serious researchers alike will find this volume an invaluable gateway into the vast landscape of arcane traditions. It offers a meticulously compiled reference that delves into everything from ancient magical months to indigenous spiritual practices, making complex histories accessible. By exploring historical figures alongside esoteric concepts, it provides a foundational understanding of psychic phenomena and mystical philosophies without requiring prior deep expertise.

⭐ Reader reviews

The starting rating comes from the team Esoterica Books —

⭐ Esoterica editorial review Editorial rating 4.5/5

★★★★★

If you're a curious seeker, a dedicated student of esoteric traditions, or captivated by the strange and unexplained, this compendium is for you. An essential acquisition for anyone building a serious library, providing immediate access to a world of hidden knowledge.

Reader rating

4.5

Based on 1 reviews

Esoterica Books editorial team

While this compendium stands as a monumental guide to the varied landscape of the occult, it is not suited for those seeking practical spell-casting instructions or immediate ritualistic application. Readers looking for contemporary Wiccan liturgy may find its focus on historical figures and ancient rites too academic. However, for anyone interested in the scholarly rigor behind arcane personalities and concepts like palingenesy, it remains an unparalleled resource that blends fascination with meticulous research.

❓ Frequently asked questions

Absolutely. Its dictionary-style format allows for easy navigation and provides concise, clear explanations, making complex topics accessible without prior specialized knowledge.

No, it embraces a vast spectrum. From Western esotericism and ancient mysticism to psychic phenomena and global folklore, it offers a truly panoramic view.

📖 Who should read this

🎯 Key themes and symbolism

Comprehensive Occult Survey

Spence's work meticulously categorizes and details an astonishing array of occult subjects. From the intricate practices of ceremonial magick to the nuanced beliefs of spiritism and mysticism, this volume serves as a singular repository of information. It thoughtfully covers psychic science, demonology, and various esoteric philosophies, making it a foundational text for understanding the breadth of hidden traditions.

Historical Figures & Concepts

The encyclopedia illuminates countless personalities and ideas that shaped occult history. Readers will encounter notorious figures like Leonora Galigai, alongside explanations of complex concepts such as palingenesy, exploring the idea of rebirth or resurrection in different contexts. It offers a unique window into the lives and beliefs of those who embraced or were accused of engaging with the arcane.

Cross-Cultural Esotericism

This volume transcends geographical and temporal boundaries, documenting occult practices from diverse cultures. From the ancient Semitic magical calendar "Ab" to the spiritual roles of "Zulu witch-finders," Spence demonstrates the universal human engagement with the unseen. It highlights how mystical and magical traditions manifest across the globe, offering a comparative perspective on esoteric thought.

📜 Historical context

Published in 1920, Spence’s Encyclopaedia emerged during a period of burgeoning interest in spiritualism and comparative religion. It filled a critical void for a comprehensive, accessible reference work on diverse esoteric subjects. This pioneering effort established a benchmark for subsequent occult scholarship, solidifying its place as a cornerstone text in the Western esoteric tradition.

📚 Glossary

Occultism
Demonology
Palingenesy

📔 Questions to reflect on

How might understanding the historical context of various occult beliefs change your perception of their modern manifestations?
Choose an obscure entry from the book (e.g., palingenesy) and research its contemporary interpretations or relevance.
Reflect on the persistent human fascination with the "hidden" or "unseen" as evidenced by the sheer breadth of topics covered in this encyclopedia.