An examination of Trithemius's "magical theology," which argued for the compatibility of magic and Christian doctrines, and its influence during the Renaissance and Reformation.

Trithemius is best known for his hidden writing- the infamous Steganographia, but his other works, including this short grimoire on the use of crystals in summoning celestial spirits, are no less potent. Through the use of a simple wand, pedestal, lamen, and a polished and clear crystal, Trithemius states that it is possible to manifest and converse with celestial forces and to constrain them through the use of simple invocation and prayer.

This volume offers a revisionist interpretation of Paracelsus and Paracelsianism. It points to the need for a new historiographical approach to the man and his ideas, while demonstrating the value of seeing them in their totallity, as well as in their proper historical text.

"Explores two principal genres of illicit learned magic in late Medieval manuscripts: image magic, which could be interpreted and justified in scholastic terms, and ritual magic, which could not"--Provided by publisher.

This volume explores the role of belief in the existence of angels in the early modern world.

A fresh look at the role of astrology and alchemy in Renaissance thinking and everyday life.