Encyclopedia of Witches & Witchcraft, The

Throughout the ages, witchcraft has often been feared and misunderstood, and Witches have often fallen victim to superstitious persecution. But the evil motives and dark powers ascribed by legend to practitioners of the Craft are hardly an accurate depiction of the true nature of the modern Wiccan movement. Within these pages, author Rosemary Ellen Guiley provides a remarkably detailed survey of the history of witchcraft in all its manifestations, from ancient times to the present. Paying special attention to the cultural and theological significance of witchcraft, she traces its lineage from ancient pagan mythology to condemned sorcery to modern religion. Many of the entries revised and expanded for this new edition cast fresh light on the myths and misconceptions of the past, and extensive biographical entries profile the key figures in contemporary Witchcraft and their contributions to the movement. With more than 500 entries and more than 100 illustrations, the Encyclopedia of Witches and Witchcraft is the most current and complete reference on this fascinating subject and an indispensable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the true nature of witchcraft. This large-format softcover has some staining to the outer edges of the bottom right corner of the book, but it is in otherwise good condition.