Abstract
Abstract This chapter explores early examples of the witch figure and magician, and the development of magic as a practice, by focusing on the material evidence from the earliest clay tablets that recorded spells through to the use of papyrus rolls in the Hellenic world and the creation of magical objects. How did magicians go about their work? How did the development of writing and writing surfaces shape the magical tradition? Furthermore, what did the ancient Mesopotamians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans hope to achieve through magic, and what does this tell us about ancient societies? The chapter also describes the relationship between religion and magic, as understood at the time, and how their definitions changed with the rise of Christianity.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
