Magic: A Very Short Introduction

Owen Davies examines magic as both an idea and a practice, tracing how it has been defined, debated and used across cultures and historical periods. The book considers supernatural belief, religious miracles, illusion, superstition and fantasy, while questioning whether magic can be reduced to a single meaning. Anthropological and historical perspectives are set alongside discussion of magic’s relationship with religion and science.

Chapters address magical thinking, the writing and circulation of magical texts, and practical activities involving spells, charms and rituals. Davies also considers magic in the modern world, including Victorian spiritualism, Theosophy, Freemasonry, neo-paganism and contemporary examples from Africa. The result is a concise study of why magical ideas continue to influence human life and imagination.