Grafton, Anthony
Magus: The Art of Magic from Faustus to Agrippa
- ISBN 13:
- 9780140276916
- author:
- Grafton, Anthony
- format:
- Paperback
- publisher:
- Penguin Books Ltd
- language:
- English
- Publication Year:
- 2025
- Pages:
- 304
- Dimensions:
- 19.8 x 12.9 x 3.5 centimetres (0
- Genre:
- History, General, History,
- Condition:
- New
- Availability:
- Item usually sent within 10 working days
Description
The magus: a figure of genius and mystique. During the High Renaissance, a distinctive blend of science, engineering, and mysticism emerged, embodied by the magus. These individuals, including the historical figure of Faust, were pioneers in modern physics and chemistry, while also exploring secret codes, siege engines, and magic tricks. Their work revolutionized fields such as astronomy, architecture, warfare, and medicine. The magus was a complex and multifaceted figure, often walking the line between science and superstition. This book delves into the lives of five fascinating individuals - including Marsilio Ficino, Pico della Mirandola, Johannes Trithemius, and Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa - who sat at the heart of the Renaissance's innovative spirit. By exploring their careers, we gain insight into the intricate relationships between magic, religion, and science during this pivotal period. Through the lens of these extraordinary individuals, we can gain a deeper understanding of the Renaissance's restless innovation and the ways in which magic, religion, and science were once intertwined. This book offers a unique perspective on the history of the Renaissance, shedding light on the complex and often blurred boundaries between these disciplines.