In this collection of essays, Charles W. Olliver surveys the origins of the occult, considers its relationship to religion and spiritualism, and discusses how we should deal with experiences outside our understanding through the proposed science of metaphysics.

A comprehensive overview of the hidden histories of religion, sorcery, esoterica and superstition. The Occult, Magic & Witchcraft is a wide-ranging classic work that delves into symbols, divinatory practices, mediumship, Satanism, witchcraft - and even vampires and werewolves. From bizarre beliefs and disturbing rites to the grisly details of various witch trials, Olliver presents everything with a spirit of scientific curiosity.