RELST-312 Religion and Magic
Hypnotism. Stage magic. Wonder shows. What do these things have to do with religion? This course explores this question as we trace various intersections of magic and religion from the 18th century to the present day, examining topics including occult and esoteric movements, conjuring practices, mesmerism, hypnotism, spiritualism, telepathy, and stage magic performances. Throughout this course, we engage with critical theories and methods in the study of religion that shed light on the religious dimensions of magic and magical dynamics of religion. In addition to scholarly works from the fields of religious studies and cultural history, we examine a range of cultural data and historical artifacts, from colonial-era trials against alleged sorcerers to 20 th century scientific experiments in psychic phenomena.
Seminar (12)
Credits
1
Prerequisite
One Religious Studies course