Books Greek Magic Ancient, Medieval and Modern Edited ByJohn Petropoulos

"Greek Magic: Ancient, Medieval and Modern," edited by John Petropoulos, is a comprehensive examination of the tradition and practice of magic in Greek society spanning over three millennia. The book traces the phenomenon of magic from ancient times, starting with figures like Homer’s Circe—the first ‘evil witch’ in Western history—through to the enduring belief in the evil eye in modern Greece.

It covers the many forms that magic has taken throughout Greek history, including curse tablets from classical Athens, medico-magical gems of late antiquity, early Christian amulets, and exorcism prayers from medieval periods. This work is organized chronologically, highlighting the evolving traditions, ideologies, and methods of magic in ancient, medieval, modern, and contemporary Greek contexts.