Born Alphonse Louis Constant, French magician Eliphas Levi (1810-1875) wrote prolifically on the occult sciences. This popular two-volume treatise on practical magic attempts to initiate the reader into the mysteries of occult philosophy. Identifying magic as the 'nurse or godmother' of all intellectual forces, Levi proclaims his firm belief in man as microcosm of the universe, the strength of human willpower and the effectiveness of sympathetic magic. Volume 1, 'The Doctrine of Transcendental Magic', establishes Levi's own philosophical approach to the theory of magic, detailing the various methods of accessing esoteric knowledge of the universe through supernatural methods. Beginning with the ancient origins of occult philosophy and influence, Levi chronicles the history of magic. Volume 2, 'The Ritual of Transcendental Magic', focuses on the rituals and ceremonies of Western occult philosophy, offering explanations for magical equilibrium, the use and consecration of the pentagram, talismans, necromancy and transmutations.
- ISBN13 9781108027540
- Publish Date 17 March 2011
- Publish Status Active
- Publish Country GB
- Imprint Cambridge University Press
- Pages 858
- Language French