The Old and the New Magic

Name: The Old and the New Magic
Author: Henry Ridgely Evans

By Henry Ridgely Evans

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About This Book

The author surveys the evolution of magical practice from ancient priestcraft to modern stage prestidigitation, combining historical overview with portraits of celebrated figures and charlatans. Essays examine mechanical marvels such as automata and lantern illusions, techniques for producing ghostly phenomena and alleged second-sight, and the transition from occult claims to theatrical demonstration. Interspersed are personal recollections, practical confessions of an amateur conjurer, and reflections on how scientific and cultural changes reshaped performance magic.

About the Author

Henry Ridgely Evans

Henry Ridgely Evans was an American author and a prominent figure in the exploration of spiritualism and the occult during the late 19th century. He is best known for his works "Hours with the Ghosts or, Nineteenth Century Witchcraft" and "The Old and the New Magic," where he delves into the phenomena of spiritualism, theosophy, and magic. Through his writings, Evans sought to investigate and document the practices and beliefs surrounding these mystical subjects, contributing to the broader discourse on the supernatural during his time. His works reflect a blend of skepticism and fascination with the unexplained, making him a notable voice in the literary heritage of spiritualism.