Keith Thomas Religion And The Decline Of Magic Pdf
Many people believe that religion and magic are two separate concepts, but in reality, they are closely related. Keith Thomas’ book, Religion and the Decline of Magic, explores the relationship between religion and magic in England during the 16th and 17th centuries. In this article, we will discuss the key themes of Thomas’ book and how they relate to modern-day religion and magic.
The Decline of Magic
One of the key themes of Thomas’ book is the decline of magic in England during the 16th and 17th centuries. During this time, there was a shift away from magical practices and a greater emphasis on religion. Thomas argues that this shift was due to a number of factors, including the rise of Protestantism and the increasing influence of science and rationalism.
Thomas also notes that the decline of magic was not uniform across all parts of society. While the upper classes tended to favor religion over magic, the lower classes were more likely to continue practicing magical rituals and beliefs.
Religion and Magic
Another key theme of Thomas’ book is the relationship between religion and magic. Thomas argues that religion and magic are not necessarily opposed to each other, but rather are two different ways of understanding and engaging with the world.
According to Thomas, religion is based on the belief in a higher power or powers that govern the world, while magic is based on the belief in the manipulation of supernatural forces to achieve a desired outcome. While these two concepts may seem different, they both involve the use of ritual and belief in unseen powers.
Modern-day Religion and Magic
While Thomas’ book focuses on England during the 16th and 17th centuries, its themes are still relevant to modern-day religion and magic. In fact, there has been a resurgence of interest in magical practices in recent years, particularly in the form of Wicca and other neo-pagan religions.
At the same time, traditional religions like Christianity are still very much a part of modern-day society. While there may be some tension between religion and magic, it is possible for people to practice both and find meaning and fulfillment in both.
Conclusion
Keith Thomas’ book, Religion and the Decline of Magic, offers a fascinating look at the relationship between religion and magic in England during the 16th and 17th centuries. While the book is focused on a specific time and place, its themes are still relevant to modern-day society. Whether you are interested in religion, magic, or both, Thomas’ book is a must-read for anyone looking to understand the complex relationship between these two concepts.
