Miracles of Our Own Making : A History of Paganism

'An inventive, authoritative and lively history of paganism and magic, with a practical twist. It deserves a wide readership.' BBC History Magazine'At last, we have a history of British Paganism written from the inside, by somebody who not only has a good knowledge of the sources, but explicitly understands how Pagans and magicians think.' Ronald Hutton, author of The WitchMiracles of Our Own Making is a historical overview of magic in the British Isles, from the ancient peoples of Britain to the rich and cosmopolitan landscape of contemporary paganism. We explore the beliefs of the Druids, Anglo-Saxons and Vikings, the alchemy of the Elizabethan Court and the witch trials. We encounter grimoires, ceremonial magic and the Romantic revival of arcane deities. The influential and well known - the Golden Dawn, Wicca and figures such as Aleister Crowley - are considered alongside the everyday 'cunning folk' who formed the magical fabric of previous centuries.Ranging widely across literature, art, science and beyond, Liz Williams debunks many of the prevailing myths surrounding magical practice, past and present, while offering a rigorously researched and highly accessible account of what it means to be a pagan today.'In this highly engaging and informative book Liz Williams shares her wide knowledge of British Paganism in the past and present. From druids to grimoires, and antiquarians to occultists, the book is rich in detail and interesting characters.' Owen Davies, author of Grimoires and editor of The Oxford Illustrated History of Witchcraft and Magic'An absolute must for anyone interested in the development of paganism in the modern world. I cannot recommend this book enough.' Janet Farrar, co-author (with Stewart Farrar) of A Witches' Bible'An informative and well-informed history of paganism, sensibly written with both knowledge and sympathy.' Carolyne Larrington, author of The Land of the Green Man'With good sense and sound judgment, our amiable guide takes us on a magical journey from the ancient world to the present day . . . a fine overview of the mysterious and complex history of magic.' Thomas Waters, author of Cursed Britain