Magic in the Ancient Greek World (Blackwell Ancient Religions)

Original and comprehensive, Magic in the Ancient Greek World takes the reader inside both the social imagination and the ritual reality that made magic possible in ancient Greece. Explores the widespread use of spells, drugs, curse tablets, and figurines, and the practitioners of magic in the ancient world Uncovers how magic worked. Was it down to mere superstition? Did the subject need to believe in order for it to have an effect? Focuses on detailed case studies of individual types of magic Examines the central role of magic in Greek life Magic In The Ancient Greek World Is An Introduction To The Practice Of Magic During The Classical Period. This Book Develops A Framework For Understanding The Role Of Magic In Greek Life. Thematically Organized Around Detailed Case Studies Of Individual Types Of Magic, This Volume Examines The Use Of Spells, Drugs, Binding Curses, Figurines, And The Specialists Who Offered Them. Collins Reveals How Each Of These Magical Practices Worked And The Cultural Structures That Allowed Them To Occur.--jacket. Magic : What Is It And How Does It Work? -- A Framework For Greek Magic -- Binding Magic And Erotic Figurines -- Homeric Incantations -- Magic In Greek And Roman Law. Derek Collins. Includes Bibliographical References (p. [191]-197) And Index. Contents 6 Acknowledgments 8 Abbreviations 10 Introduction 12 Chapter 1 16 Chapter 2 42 Chapter 3 79 Chapter 4 119 Chapter 5 147 Chapter 6 181 Notes 185 Select Bibliography 206 Index 213