Description
Book SynopsisExplores the work of the astrologer-physician and Anglican rector Richard Napier (1559-1634). Examines Napier’s medical and magical practices in their larger context and shows how the physician incorporated both astral and ritual magic into his medicine.
Trade Review“A compelling study. . . . This volume informs the eventual separation of religion and magic.”
—G. M. Smith Choice
“A thoughtful and comprehensive intellectual biography of Richard Napier. The book will be of great use to scholars and students for its clear introductions to complex topics, such as early modern astrology and the occult. The book also illuminates the fascinating mental world of Napier, which offers rich insights into beliefs and practices of the age.”
—Olivia Weisser Bulletin of the History of Medicine
“A provocative intellectual biography.”
—Ryan J. Stark Renaissance Quarterly
“Hadass has performed an incredibly helpful service in bringing Napier and his records to light.”
—Gary K. Waite Canadian Journal of History / Annales canadiennes d'histoire
“Hadass successfully explores the interaction of astrological, magical, and angelic divination with theological understandings in the work of Richard Napier, providing for the first time a rounded view of this Anglican priest-physician and an invaluable guide to those wishing to use Napier’s uniquely rich collection of manuscripts.”
—Jonathan Barry,author of Witchcraft and Demonology in South-West England, 1640–1789
“Illuminating and effective, making a learned and worthwhile contribution to our understanding of early modern magic and its religious milieu.”
—Michael Hunter Journal of Ecclesiastical History
“Part biography, part analysis of Napier’s work, this volume is valuable for deepening our understanding of the ways authority and knowledge were conceived in the early modern period, and how this fed into both the theological and medical spheres.”
—Sarah Waters The Seventeenth Century
Table of ContentsContents
List of Illustrations
List of Symbols
Acknowledgments
Conventions
Introduction
1. Astrological Medicine
2. Astral Magic
3. Converse with Angels
4. Religion and Knowledge
Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
Index
