A wide-ranging, scholarly examination of the surviving Anglo-Saxon magical texts, comparing them (and the underlying belief system) with Indian, German, medieval English and modern spells and charms. This is an invaluable source for the study of folk magic.

Part I consists of 5 sections:
1. Introduction: characteristics of magic; tendency to preserve secrecy.
2. The surviving Anglo-Saxon manuscripts: The Leechbook, the Lacnunga; others.
3. On magic and magical practices: origins, efficacy, definition.
4. The structure and atmosphere of the ritual: settings, materials and methods used.
5. Borrowing or tradition: classical sources; Indo-European parallels.
PART II comprises 86 spells and rituals for specific ends: against fevers; against elf-sickness and elf-disease; against the black blains; against a dwarf; to obtain favors, etc.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
PART I
1 Introductory
2 The Manuscripts
3 On Magic and Magical Practices
4 Structure and Atmosphere of the Ritual
5 Borrowing or Tradition
PART II
APPENDIX

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