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More cunning than folk: An analysis of Francis Barrett's 'The Magus' as indicative of a transitional period of English Magic

Posted on:2014-08-16Degree:M.AType:Thesis
University:University of Ottawa (Canada)Candidate:Priddle, Robert AFull Text:PDF
GTID:2454390005494356Subject:religion
Abstract/Summary:
This thesis seeks to define how Francis Barrett's The Magus, Or Celestial Intelligencer is indicative of a transitional period (1800–1830) of English Magic. The intention and transmission of Barrett's The Magus is linked to the revival of occultism and its use as a textbook for occult philosophy. This thesis provides a historical background preceding this revival. The aim of the thesis is to establish Barrett's text as a hybrid interpretation of Renaissance magic for a modern audience. It is primarily by this hybridization that a series of feedback loops would begin to create the foundation for modern occultism. This study utilizes a careful study of primary sources, including a systematic examination of The Magus within its intellectual and social contexts.
Keywords/Search Tags:Magus, Barrett's
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