The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft and Wicca, Third Edition

I own several of Rosemary Ellen Guiley's books, mostly on the paranormal and supernatural as I not only have an interest in the subject but also use it for research purposes. This title, "The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft, and Wicca" is another well-researched title for those interested in the subject or keen to use the contents for research and academic purposes.The book contains over 480 entries spanning witchcraft practices all over the world, across different time periods, the practice of witchcraft in societies, etc. The entries are by no means comprehensive, but they are detailed and what makes this book a valuable tool of research and knowledge is the suggestions for further reading which enables readers to look up other works on the subject to widen their knowledge.I was particularly interested in the folklore relating to witchcraft and its practices around the world, as well as the coverage on the notorious Salem witch trials as well as other historical cases of witchcraft trials, e.g. the Island Magee Witch Trials in Ireland in 1711. The encyclopedia also has extensive entries on various places on interest such as the Witchcraft Museum in Cornwall, England. All of the entries are arranged in alphabetical order. There is also an extensive bibliography at the end, followed by an index for cross-referencing. Recommended!

I found an older edition of this book at my local library and found it to be so interesting I thought I could use a copy. I’m honestly just reading it, which is crazy since its an encyclopedia. Its so thorough and I feel like it has given me a great perspective on all things historical and modern witch. So nice to have straight forward information on everything so I can choose my path with confidence.

This is an excellent addition for your collection. It is very well written, and contains useful information that is not laced with nonsense like so many books of its kind.

This book is very nice. You can tell that the author did a lot of research. If you are looking for a reference book that describes witchcraft terminology, this is a great source of information. The author also discusses historical events and famous pagan people. If you want a book on doing spells and how to practice witchcraft, I recommend Buckland's Complete Book of Witchcraft.

The information seemed simplistic and general, at times incomplete and misleading, and other time the information appeared to be based more on personal opinion than any facts or other resources.

It's ok. All black and white. Mostly a reference. Like if you were taking a French class and needed a translation of a particular word except the class is on Witchcraft. All illustrations are black and white and nothing to write home about. However if you're looking for something in particular the entries are refreshing and not like common definitions you'd find online or in other books. Has a lot of little known information and rod hits about some of the most historical events in witchcraft check out the Salem trials.

This is a great Pagan Wiccan and Occult Themes Reference Book and regardless of one's beliefs systems and/or social affiliations.Rosemary Guiley's works have always been a delight and quite a gift of unbiased/well-informed erudition...I do have other books by her and I assure you - "This sweet lady does know her stuff - a great writer!"I've purchased her "The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft, and Wicca - 3rd Edition" and I do love this reference book.I recommend it.Sky a.k.a. JD Aeon - GLBT MTF Pagan Wiccan Witch Shaman & Occultist

This exceeded my expectations. Thank you

It is a very beautiful encyclopedia that explains the topic very well. I am an academic and researcher in the occult, paranormal and esoteric doctrines. It is an academic work and that in itself is very good. What I like about Rosemary's encyclopedias (this one and the others) is that after almost the majority of terms you have a "Further reading heading": that states tons of resources (books etc..) to dig deeper into specific concepts.I read all the encyclopedia and It was enjoyable! 5 Stars !I have also bought both: The encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology (completely read!), The encyclopedia of Angels (completely read!) - Both amazing! - Any esoteric student/scholar should have these encyclopedias in his/her library.

Very good read and insightful

la edición en muy bonita y llego bastante rápido, esta excelente para personas que se quieran empezar con esto de la brujería. Muy recomendable.

Aún nisiquiera lo termino de leer (voy a la mitad) pero eh sacado tan buenas referencias de libros, entre otras cosas. Es una joya esta enciclopedia.

Like the book she talks about the rich history of witches and the book is beautiful in itself