Magic as a Useful Category of Historical Analysis

This article outlines the role and function of ‘service’ magic in premodern society, suggests ways which study can be used as a lens to investigate understand broader historical questions. Magic studies is marginalised field, supernatural generally treated an unusual aspect human experience. shows that there are major benefits reintegrating into wider studies. The begins by introducing concept service phenomenon societies, argues for its fundamental importance particularly during medieval early modern periods. Having established this, I explore reintegration affect our interpretation past. might useful exploring other fields social, political economic history. Its illicit tool makes unique window number topics, such cultures tolerance persecution, black market proto-capitalist economics, liminal or communities.