Could this be magic? Magic has always been a subject of wonder and fascination for humans. It has been an integral part of cultures and societies throughout history. From ancient civilizations to modern times, people have witnessed and performed acts of magic. But what is magic, and could it really exist? Magic is often defined as the supernatural power or ability to manipulate reality and control natural forces. It is associated with spells, rituals, and the use of mystical objects or words. Throughout the ages, magicians and sorcerers have claimed to possess this power, performing astonishing feats that defy the laws of nature.
“Inner Traditions has done justice to this text. It is published in a three volume slipcase edition, which, though expensive, is handsomely executed. I believe that anyone with a deep interest in the Western occult tradition will want to own it.”
— Richard Smoley, Quest
One of the most important texts in the Western magical tradition for nearly 500 years, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa s 1533 work Three Books of Occult Philosophy collates a multitude of sources from the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance periods and organizes them into a coherent explanation of the magical world. If the Moon is unfortunate and carved in lead, and buried in some place, it makes that place, its inhabitants, visitors, ships, springs, rivers, and mills unfortunate.
Throughout the ages, magicians and sorcerers have claimed to possess this power, performing astonishing feats that defy the laws of nature. However, magic has always been a subject of skepticism and debate. Many people dismiss magic as mere trickery or illusion, performed by skilled artists who use sleight of hand and other techniques to deceive the audience.
Three books on occultism by Agrippa
The first new and complete English translation of Agrippa’s classic masterwork in more than 350 years
• Three hardcover volumes in slipcase
• Corrects the many mistranslations, copyist mistakes, and errors introduced from other editions, drawing on new research and access to Agrippa’s source texts
• Restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations
• Presents a nearly complete bibliography of Agrippa’s primary sources
One of the most important texts in the Western magical tradition for nearly 500 years, Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa’s 1533 work Three Books of Occult Philosophy collates a multitude of sources from the Classical, Medieval, and Renaissance periods and organizes them into a coherent explanation of the magical world. Divided into three parts--the natural world, the celestial world, and the divine world--the book systematically explains the philosophy, logic, and methods of magic and astrology and how they work.
The basis for 19th-century magical orders such as the Golden Dawn and a primary source for countless books on magical uses of stones, herbs, incense, and astrology, Agrippa’s many lists and diagrams have proven invaluable to magicians since the 16th century. Yet, until now, all English editions of Agrippa’s Three Books were based on the same flawed 1651 translation from the mysterious “J.F.”
In this new translation from the original 1533 Latin edition, Eric Purdue corrects the many mistranslations, copyist mistakes, and errors introduced from other editions as well as restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations. Purdue notates every correction and offers commentary, drawing on major developments in the research of older magical and astrological texts. He also presents a nearly complete bibliography of Agrippa’s primary sources, revealing Agrippa as a mainstream scholar of his day.
Presenting the first new English translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy in more than 350 years, this three-volume hardcover boxed set repairs the gaps in knowledge pervasive in the original translation and restores the magical spirit of Agrippa’s masterpiece, allowing us to hear Agrippa speak again.
About the Author
Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa von Nettesheim (1486-1535) was a German polymath, physician, legal scholar, soldier, theologian, and occult writer. Entering the University of Cologne at the age of 13, he graduated with a Master of Arts at 16 and went on to study with abbot Johannes Trithemius, famous as the teacher of Paracelsus. Acclaimed for his lectures on Reuchlin and the Corpus Hermeticum at universities across Europe, Agrippa acted as archivist for the Holy Roman Emperor Charles V. Defying accusations of heresy and scrutiny by the Inquisition of Cologne, he published the final version of Three Books of Occult Philosophy two years before his death. Agrippa is considered one of the most influential occultists of the early modern period.
Eric Purdue has studied metaphysics and the occult and has practiced magic and astrology for more than thirty years, with a particular focus on practical folk and astrological magic. Through his lectures and writings on traditional astrology and talismanic magic, he has been a notable voice on the subjects of medieval astrology, traditional magical systems, and the legacy of Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa. His new translation of Three Books of Occult Philosophy was more than 10 years in the making.
Praise For…
“Eric Purdue’s fine new translation of H. C. Agrippa’s Three Books of Occult Philosophy is a landmark edition of this essential work. Unquestionably the most comprehensive work of the European esoteric sciences, this timely new publication of this encyclopedic masterwork is accompanied by illustrations restored from the original as well as the translator’s erudite notes, sources, and references. Agrippa’s works are fundamental to the study of all branches and aspects of the tradition, and no esoteric book collection should be without this outstanding edition.”
— Nigel Pennick, founder of the Institute of Geomantic Research and the Library of the European Tradit
“Anyone interested in the roots and branches of modern magic has repeatedly heard of the works of Agrippa. Here in these beautiful volumes we have not only an aesthetically pleasing edition, but one that has paid close attention to the technical and linguistic details as never before. They will make for better historians and practical practitioners for those who wish to undertake experiments in the bold art of magic.”
— Stephen E. Flowers, author of The Fraternitas Saturni
“Inner Traditions has done justice to this text. It is published in a three volume slipcase edition, which, though expensive, is handsomely executed. I believe that anyone with a deep interest in the Western occult tradition will want to own it.”
— Richard Smoley, Quest
- Body, Mind & Spirit / Hermetism & Rosicrucianism
- Social Science / Freemasonry & Secret Societies
- Self-help / Personal Growth / Success
- Kobo eBook (November 23rd, 2021): $99.00
- Paperback (December 1st, 2007): $28.99
- Hardcover (December 1st, 2007): $37.99
- Hardcover (June 23rd, 2019): $31.97
- Paperback (June 23rd, 2019): $14.89
- Paperback (March 14th, 2011): $33.24
• Restores all of Agrippa’s original illustrations
They argue that what appears to be magic is simply a result of clever manipulation or scientific principles. On the other hand, there are those who believe in the existence of real magic. They argue that there are unexplained phenomena and experiences that cannot be easily dismissed. They point to ancient texts, myths, and legends that describe supernatural events and the use of magic. In recent times, there has been a rise in the popularity of illusionists and magicians who claim to possess genuine magical abilities. These performers often blur the lines between reality and fiction, creating an atmosphere of mystery and wonder. They use advanced technology, psychology, and showmanship to create mind-bending illusions that leave audiences questioning what they have just witnessed. Ultimately, the question of whether magic truly exists remains unanswered. While science has made great strides in explaining the mysteries of the natural world, there are still unexplained phenomena and experiences that defy rational explanation. Whether these occurrences can be attributed to genuine magical powers or simply to our limited understanding of reality is a subject of ongoing debate. In conclusion, magic continues to captivate and intrigue us. Whether it is an elaborate illusion or a manifestation of supernatural powers, the allure of magic lies in its ability to transport us to a world beyond our own. Whether magic truly exists or not, the sense of wonder and amazement it evokes is something that will always be a part of the human experience..
Reviews for "The Curious Case of Magid: Unraveling the Secrets of the Universe."
- Sarah - 2/5 stars - I was really looking forward to reading "Could this be magic" after hearing so many great things about it, but I found myself quite disappointed. The plot was weak and poorly developed, leaving me feeling disconnected from the characters and their motivations. The writing style was also clumsy and lacked finesse. Overall, it fell far short of my expectations and I would not recommend it.
- Michael - 3/5 stars - I found "Could this be magic" to be an average read. While the premise was interesting, I felt that the execution was lacking. The pacing of the story was inconsistent, and I found myself losing interest at several points throughout. Additionally, the characters were underdeveloped, making it difficult for me to fully invest in their journey. While it had the potential to be a great book, it ultimately fell short for me.
- Emily - 2/5 stars - I really struggled to get through "Could this be magic". The story felt incredibly slow-paced and lacked any real excitement or intrigue. The dialogue was clumsy and the characters were one-dimensional. It was a struggle to connect with any of them and therefore, I didn't care much about their outcomes. Overall, it was a disappointing read and not something I would recommend.