Anne Lawrence-Mathers | The Magic Books: a History of Enchantment in 20 Medieval Manuscripts

Anne Lawrence-Mathers argues that medieval magic is often seen negatively, as outlawed by the Church, and relegated to society's fringes. However, she contends that magic was central to medieval societies, from the Carolingian Empire to Renaissance Italy and Tudor England. Using examples from her book, she illustrates this with images from luxury manuscripts owned by powerful figures in both Church and state, and the magicians they employed. These manuscripts feature astrology, palmistry, divination, ritual magic, angel magic, and geomancy, often providing practical instructions and beautiful illuminations. They were not just curiosities; ambitious princes and courtiers used them to gain knowledge of future events, from natural disasters to political crises. While theologians frowned upon contacting ‘spirits’, practitioners argued these beings could be controlled or were angels. Anne Lawrence-Mathers emphasises that surviving manuscripts are crucial as they preserve evidence of their owners, users, and the controversial knowledge they offered. Her talk includes images and translations, offering insights into various magical techniques.

Anne Lawrence-Mathers is a Professor of Medieval History at the University of Reading and is a Fellow of the Royal Historical Society and the Society of Antiquaries.

The event will be followed by a question and answer session and book signing.

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