The title of this book refers to the classic time and place for magic; witchcraft; and divination in Russia. The Bathhouse at Midnight; by one of the world's foremost experts on the subject; surveys all forms of magic; both learned and popular; in Russia from the fifth to the eighteenth century. While no book on the subject could be exhaustive; The Bathhouse at Midnight does describe and assess all the literary sources of magic; witchcraft; astrology; alchemy; and divination from Kiev Rus and Imperial Russia; and to some extent Ukraine and Belorussia. Where possible; Ryan identifies the sources of the texts (usually Greek; Arabic; or West European) and makes parallels to other cultures; ranging from classical antiquity to Finnic. He finds that Russia shares most of its magic and divination with the rest of Europe.Subjects covered include the Evil Eye; the Number of the Beast; omens; dreams; talismans and amulets; plants; gemstones; and other materials thought to possess magic properties. The first chapter gives a historical overview; and the final chapter summarizes the political; religious; and legal aspects of the history of magic in Russia. The author also provides translations of some key texts.The Bathhouse at Midnight will be invaluable for anyone—student; teacher; or general reader—with an interest in Russia; magic; or the occult. It is unique in its field and is set to become the definitive study of Russian magic.
#192555 in Books 2010-11-15Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 9.00 x 1.00 x 6.00l; 1.10 #File Name: 0268029032376 pages
Review
1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Four StarsBy Lauren DWonderful book. Every Christian student of history should own it!3 of 7 people found the following review helpful. This is a must read for Christian historians; whether ...By Paul SanchezThis is a must read for Christian historians; whether in the research university setting or a seminary or divinity school. The essays address the key issues facing believing historians.3 of 5 people found the following review helpful. More Explorative than Confessional or Revelational.By HarrisonI would give it 3.5 stars. Fea; Miller and others have done sincere work but it is neither Christian nor confessional and also lacks philosophy other than the presumed and passe; subjectivist Kierkegaardianism and representational realist Kantianism. There is scant reference to Scripture; theology; and very little to the confession. Miller for example is a member a church that subscribes to the Westminster Confession which espouses a providential view of history e.g. God providentially forming and preserving the canon of the Bible throughout history; but they reject this idea. The more Christian theological and philosophical thought of objectivist John Woodbridge (or even anti-postmodern; historical maximalist Gary North who understands history belongs to God and the church not to atheist-approved institutions and court historians bent on promoting an academic career; political agenda for profit; etc) would better serve Christian readers. Woodbridge is a providential historian; not a postmodern; and yet not so dogmatically opposed to other views unlike lesser historical minimalist; scholar and person Eric Miller. Further; North and Woodbridge understand the importance of Godliness over and against professionalism more.
