Spellbound A History of Magic and the Occult

Course Title: Spellbound: A History of Witchcraft, Magic and the Occult
Type of Course: Adult Education
Credit: Not credit bearing

Week
Session Title

1. Religion’s Weird Sister: Defining Magic

2. Voodoo Dolls and Cursing Slates: Effigy Magic Since Ancient Times

3. Stone Circles and Healing Wells: Magic and the Landscape

4. Celtic Folklore: Fairies and Curses

5. A ‘Witch Craze’? Witchcraft in Europe, c.1400–1750

6. Obeah and Voodoo in the Caribbean

7. The Cunning-Craft

8. Shamans and Shape-Shifters

9. Grimoires: The History of Magic Books

10. Mesmerism, Spiritualism, and the Victorian Occult Revival

11. Devils and Demons: Jinn, Exorcism and Deliverance

12. Alas Poor Ghost: Restless Spirits and Second Lives

13. Cursed Britain: Evil Magic After the Witch Trials

14. Making a Fortune: Fortune-Telling and Tarot Cards

15. Military Magic: The Supernatural During War and Conflict

16. Curse of a Continent? Witchcraft in Modern Africa

17. From Brothers Grimm to Harry Potter: The Power of the Magical Imagination

18. Traditional Chinese Folk Magic

19. New Witchcrafts for a New Age? Baphomet and Satanism, Wicca and Hedge Witchcraft

20. A Global Magical Revival? Occultism Today

Course Overview

This 20-week course explores the history and practice of magic, spell-craft, and the occult from ancient times to the present day. Participants will learn about witches, fairies, shamans, fortune-tellers, as well as beliefs in curses, ghosts, protective talismans, and superstitions associated with the occult. Each week examines a key theme in the history of magic, assessing its place in different cultures worldwide and its evolution over time.

The course also delves into the representation of magic and the occult in art, literature, and popular culture—from the fairy tales of the Grimm Brothers to the wizardry of Harry Potter. Using methods from history, folklore, anthropology, and psychology, participants will consider why magic has persisted in the human imagination and how it continues to resonate today.

The course encourages discussion and reflection, including personal perspectives on superstition, magical thinking, and objects of meaning. No prior knowledge is required, and the sessions are designed to be accessible and engaging.

Required Previous Experience (if any)
None required.

Required Reading Material or Special Equipment Needed (if any)
There is no compulsory reading for this course, and no set course text. For those wishing to explore further, a recommended reading list will be provided during the course.

Learning Outcomes

On completion of this course, you will be better prepared to:

• Understand key themes and practices in the history of magic and the occult across various cultures and time periods

• Analyse the role of magic and the occult in art, literature, and popular culture

• Critically engage with historical and contemporary perspectives on magical beliefs and practices

Teaching and Learning Approach

The teaching and learning approach for this course combines tutor-led instruction, group discussions, and independent study supported by individual guidance from the tutor. Classes are conducted live online and use a variety of teaching methods, including visual presentations, interactive discussions, and occasional activities. These are designed to encourage reflection, accommodate different learning styles, and support engagement with the subject matter.

The course is also structured to be inclusive and respectful of a wide range of cultural backgrounds, experiences, and beliefs, fostering a welcoming and thought-provoking learning environment.

Additional Information

This course descriptor may be subject to change during the delivery of the course, depending on the specific direction and nature of the learner cohort, and is intended to be responsive to the group dynamics as they emerge during the delivery of the course.