Katherine L. (secondhandmoon) reviewed on 5/4/2011 + 7 more book reviews

If you're looking for some light reading, this is not the book for you; but if you want a well-researched, thoroughly cited, accessible academic work on the history of modern witchcraft, you can't do better than this. Ronald Hutton approaches the subject with an open mind but a critical eye on the evidence, and I'm very impressed with how he manages to debunk some fantasies and half-truths while maintaining a respectful attitude toward the subject. He never takes on the condescending tone of a hostile skeptic and doesn't dismiss the legitimacy of Wicca as a modern religion even as he offers evidence against some of the romantic notions of its history. I bought this book because I'm a Pagan myself, but I also have a skeptical mind, and I wanted to know the real history of my religion. I do not feel disillusioned after reading this book, though some Pagans might. Every religion was young once, and we don't need a fanciful history dating back centuries to legitimize our beliefs as Pagans and Witches. This book is dense with details, not all of which may interest everyone, but if you're interested in an objective history of modern Paganism and Wicca, you should at least skim this book. I'm happy I read it.

Back to all reviews by this member
Back to Book Reviews
Back to Book Details