Witchcraft & Secret Societies of Rural England The Magic of Toadmen, Plough Witches, Mummers, and Bonesmen by Nigel Pennick
216 Pages
Publisher: Destiny Books
Release Date: April 9, 2019
Nonfiction, Witchcraft, Folklore & Mythology, Spirituality
The book has the following chapters:
The Geographical Region and Its Link
The Drovers
Markets and Fairs
Secret of the Trades and Craft Guilds
Secrets of the Horsemen
Millers, Gardeners, and Bonesmen
The Confraternity of the Plough
Ritual Disguise and Resistance
Witches, Wise Women, Quack Doctresses and Cunning Men
Handywomen, Witches, and Witchcraft
Geomantic Traditions and the magic of Place
Devilish Definitions
Magic, Farming, and the Land
Tools of the Craft
The beginning of the book discusses the geographical regions. The section on Drovers explains how they would plant trees as landmarks to help them while moving flocks of sheep or herd of cattle. Most people are aware of the Freemasons, but the author discusses numerous secret societies and craft guilds. The Millers and Gardeners were thought to be practicing magic because of the results of their work. I was amazed with the information on the Toadmen and the process of collecting the toad bones. There is a detailed explanation of Plough Monday and the traditions associated with it.
The information about Rebecca and Her Daughters and their vindication very interesting. Although their methods were questionable, they got the results they were looking for. The history of the Cunning Folk and Mother Redcap was very thorough. I loved the section about Witches having the ability to stop animals in their tracks. Of course, no book on Witches or Witchcraft would be complete without discussing persecution. The last chapter discusses many different tools used including brooms and divining rods.
The book contains many photos and drawings to help describe the different topics and sections. I have read many books by this author and always learn something, and this book was no different. I appreciate the dedication to research Mr. Pennick has when writing. If you are interested in history, this book should definitely be on your bookshelf.
