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- The displaying of supposed witchcraft: Wherein is affirmed that there are many sorts of deceivers and impostors, and divers persons under a passive delusion of melancholy and fancy. But that there is a corporeal league made betwixt the devil and the witch, or that he sucks on the witches body, has c
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The displaying of supposed witchcraft: Wherein is affirmed that there are many sorts of deceivers and impostors, and divers persons under a passive delusion of melancholy and fancy. But that there is a corporeal league made betwixt the devil and the witch, or that he sucks on the witches body, has c
John Webster's 1677 book argues against the common belief in widespread witchcraft.
John Webster's 'The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft' appeared in 1677, questioning the popular notions of witchcraft prevalent in his era. He presented witchcraft not as the work of active malevolent forces but often as the result of human deception, imposture, or psychological states like melancholy. Webster distinguished between genuine spiritual phenomena and what he considered mere delusion or trickery. His work examines the nature of spirits and angels, seeking to clarify their true roles and powers. Webster also discussed various forms of charms and philters, evaluating their efficacy and source. The book aimed to separate genuine supernatural occurrences from fabricated ones, providing a reasoned, though still religiously informed, perspective on the subject.
📝 About the book: The displaying of supposed witchcraft: Wherein is affirmed that there are many sorts of deceivers and impostors, and divers persons under a passive delusion of melancholy and fancy. But that there is a corporeal league made betwixt the devil and the witch, or that he sucks on the witches body, has c
Immerse yourself in the arcane world of 17th-century occult thought with John Webster's 'The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft.' This profound work challenges the prevailing beliefs of his time, examining the hidden domains of melancholy, deception, and the nature of the supernatural. Webster's text is a beacon for those seeking to understand the mystical underpinnings of witchcraft and the true nature of spirits and angels. The atmosphere is dense with philosophical inquiry and esoteric symbolism, making it an essential read for scholars of the occult and spiritual seekers alike. Webster's exploration of astral and sidereal spirits, charms, and philters offers a body of hidden knowledge that resonates deeply with contemporary esoteric practitioners.
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📖 Why choose
Why this book is worth reading
Read 'The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft' to gain a deeper understanding of the mystical and occult traditions that have shaped our world. Ideal for scholars, spiritual seekers, and practitioners of the esoteric arts, this book offers a rich exploration of hidden knowledge and symbolism. Webster's insights into the nature of spirits, astral and sidereal influences, and the force of charms and philters make this a valuable addition to any metaphysical library.
⭐ Customer reviews
Customer rating
Alaric Kestrel (Metaphysical Studies Reviewer) — John Webster's 'The Displaying of Supposed Witchcraft' is a key work that stands as a evidence of the enduring quest for understanding the mystical and the occult. Webster's bold denial of corporeal leagues between the devil and witches, coupled with his affirmation of the existence of angels and spirits, makes this text a core part of esoteric literature. The book's strength lies in its meticulous dissection of supernatural phenomena, providing readers with a profound philosophical framework to explore the nature of reality. Ideal for both seasoned scholars and curious seekers, this work is a must-read for anyone examining the depths of witchcraft and paganism.
This edition finally does the material justice. Plenty of passages worth underlining; my copy is already full of margin notes. Already eyeing my next order.
I've read excerpts online before, but having the full text is different. It connects ideas I'd only seen treated separately elsewhere. My only quibble is the cover feels thinner than expected. Happy enough with the purchase.
This has been on my wishlist for months. Some sections stopped me cold in the best way. My only regret is not ordering it sooner.
This exceeded my expectations. Not a light read, but far more accessible than I feared. Five stars from me.
Bought this as a gift for my sister and ended up ordering a second copy for myself. Not a light read, but far more accessible than I feared. Still worth having on the shelf.
My book club chose this last month. A text you study rather than simply read. The font runs small in the appendices. Still worth having on the shelf.
Been hunting for a decent copy of this text for ages. Solid binding, decent paper — holds up to heavy use. I'd have loved an index, but that's on the original text. Solid, if not essential.
