ANTH 320 - Witchcraft and Magic

(3.00)

This is a course that concerns witchcraft, magic and sorcery. These behavioral and symbolic forms exist or have existed in virtually all human societies and cultures. In the West, they may be generally referred to as occult practices, exist in a separate domain from everyday life, and refer to an unseen world. In contrast, in indigenous societies, witchcraft, magic and sorcery may permeate life and interpersonal relations in distinctive ways. Currently, the significance and role of witchcraft have been increasing in importance in many cultures; in addition, the development of Wicca in the West also attests to the vitality of these beliefs. In this class, we will deal with a variety of issues, including defining these entities; showing how they work in different types of societies, exploring differences among traditions, and discussing if and how they might work.

Components: Lecture