The concept of an "Architect of Witchcraft" refers to an individual who plays a significant role in the development, organization, and promotion of witchcraft beliefs and practices. This term is often associated with influential historical figures who have contributed to the shaping of witchcraft as a spiritual or magical tradition. Throughout history, there have been several individuals who have been recognized as architects of witchcraft due to their influential roles in advancing the understanding and practice of witchcraft. One such figure is Gerald Gardner, who is often credited as the founder of modern Witchcraft, also known as Wicca. Gardner played a significant role in popularizing witchcraft in the mid-20th century through his writings, teachings, and the establishment of the Gardnerian tradition of Witchcraft. Another prominent figure in the history of witchcraft is Aleister Crowley.
Witches' Memorial, Steilneset, Vardø, by Peter Zumthor and Louise Bourgeois. 2011. Photo: Ellen Ane Eggen
To realise the project, Knut Wold worked with Svein Rønning, the Norwegian Scenic Routes curator, and with representatives of the so-called millennium committee in Vardø. They are also sometimes called coffin windows since it was said that moving a corpse in a coffin was easier through these windows than by taking the stairs.
Another prominent figure in the history of witchcraft is Aleister Crowley. Although primarily known for his involvement in occultism and ceremonial magic, Crowley's influence on modern occult and witchcraft practices cannot be overlooked. His writings, such as "The Book of the Law" and "Magick in Theory and Practice," have influenced generations of occultists and witches, inspiring them to explore the deeper aspects of spirituality and magic.
The Anti-Witch Architecture of the Old Days
Today there are plenty of superstitious people in the world, but over time humans have become more reliant on evidence and practice than on mystical beliefs. However, in the old days many folks truly believed that witches had supernatural powers and were in league with the source of all evil: the devil. Since anyone could be a witch in secret, the threat of evil was everywhere. Houses were a key location for apotropaic architecture to ward off evil. In some cultures evil was broadly defined as coming from spirits, the devil, envious neighbors, witches, or other sources. Here are some of the things that people used to build into houses to keep evil at bay.
Witch Bottles
Witch bottles were filled will metal pieces (often nails), urine, fingernail clippings, or other things were thought to protect from the evildoing of witches. At the time everything from poor circulation to bad crops was blamed on witches, so these glass bottles were a potential panacea for literally anything that ailed you. These glass or ceramic bottles were often hidden above or below thresholds (in the walls or under the floorboards) and hearths as these spots were seen as inherently magical locations of houses.
Witch Windows
There are old folk beliefs that witches cannot fly on their brooms though sideways windows, though who has ever seen a witch on a broom to start with? In New England the tradition was common during colonial times and had a convenient other purpose: these askew windows were easier to install than true dormer windows for the second story and they let light into awkward spaces in the eaves. They are also sometimes called “coffin windows” since it was said that moving a corpse in a coffin was easier through these windows than by taking the stairs.
Shoes in the Ceilings
Sometimes when a house was being built or renovated the owners or builders would place shoes in the walls or ceilings to muddy the activity of witches. It was believed that a witch would sense the person who had once worn the shoes in the “dummy” (empty) shoes and focus their ill intent on the shoes instead of the actual person. It was important that only old shoes worn my family members were used for this purpose as new shoes wouldn’t have any traces of energy of the people in them.
Apotropaic Markings
In Europe it is not uncommon to find markings scrawled into the heavy wooden beams of ceilings and fireplaces in old buildings. These were done to protect all who lived there. They are also known as Marian marks because they often invoke the Virgin Mary to protect the occupants. Most common are the marks of “V V” with the Vs crossed over each for “Virgo Virginum” or “Virgin of Virgins”. However, other designs (like the daisy wheel) or words could be used instead as there are many such traditions of anti-witch markings in old homes.
It is important to note that the concept of an "Architect of Witchcraft" is not limited to historical figures. In contemporary times, there are individuals who continue to play significant roles in the development and promotion of witchcraft. For example, authors such as Scott Cunningham and Raymond Buckland have contributed to the accessibility and understanding of witchcraft through their books, which have become essential resources for aspiring witches and practitioners. Furthermore, the advent of the internet and social media has allowed the rise of digital "Architects of Witchcraft." Online platforms have given individuals the ability to share their knowledge, experiences, and teachings with a wide audience, making them influential figures within the witchcraft community. These modern-day architects have helped foster a sense of community and provide a platform for the exchange of ideas and practices. Overall, the term "Architect of Witchcraft" encompasses individuals throughout history who have played a significant role in shaping and advancing the understanding and practice of witchcraft. These figures have influenced the beliefs, practices, and communities associated with witchcraft, leaving a lasting impact on the spiritual and magical traditions that exist today..
Reviews for "The Architect of Witchcraft and the Pursuit of Personal Power"
1. Jessica - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Architect of Witchcraft". The story seemed promising at first, but it quickly fell flat. The characters were underdeveloped and unrelatable, and I found it hard to connect with them. The writing style was also quite dull, lacking the descriptive imagery that is so essential in fantasy novels. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone looking for a captivating witchcraft story.
2. Mike - 1/5 stars - "Architect of Witchcraft" was a complete bore. The plot was predictable and uninspiring, and the pacing was incredibly slow. I struggled to stay engaged and found myself skipping pages just to get to the end. The author failed to create any sense of tension or excitement, leaving me feeling indifferent towards the characters and their struggles. I regret wasting my time on this book and would advise others to steer clear of it.
3. Emily - 2/5 stars - I had high hopes for "Architect of Witchcraft", but it fell short of my expectations. The world-building felt half-hearted and lacked depth, making it difficult for me to fully immerse myself in the story. The dialogue was often stilted and unrealistic, making the interactions between characters feel forced. While there were a few interesting moments, they were overshadowed by the book's overall lackluster execution. I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone seeking a captivating witchcraft tale.