Spanning three millennia, this in-depth investigation charts how ideas about witchcraft took shape thousands of years ago and examines society's reaction to the practice of magic and the control of natural forces, from the burning times of the medieval period to today.

Not always women, not always ugly, and not always worshippers of Satan...witches have existed in all ages and all cultures from biblical Judaea to medieval Europe and the Americas. This in-depth, illustrated investigation of witchcraft spans three millennia. Witchcraft charts how our ideas about witchcraft took shape thousands of years ago and examines society's reaction to the practice of magic and the control of natural forces, from the violent "burning times" of the medieval period to today's continuing suspicion of pagan rites. This fascinating book reveals the true history behind the sterotype, showing how Wicca has evolved and how old ideas have been transformed into a religion of equality and respect.