A Guide to Ancient Magic From Mesopotamia to Celtic Britain
Summary
This episode explores magic and witchcraft in antiquity, examining how Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Celtic cultures integrated supernatural practices into religion, law, and daily life. The host analyzes primary sources like cuneiform tablets, papyri, and curse tablets to reveal actual spells, rituals, and legal codes against sorcery. Key topics include the roles of priests, druids, and magi, the blurred line between sanctioned healing and illicit harm, and the pervasive use of protective amulets and divination. The discussion highlights how ancient societies viewed magic as a …
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