Section outline

  • Week I (September 1) Introduction – Issues of Definition

    Topics:

    ·      course introduction

    ·      definition of magic

    ·      magic vs. religion, magic vs. science

    ·      instrumental and symbolic action

    ·      ancient contexts of magic

     

    Readings:

    ·      Apuleius, Metamorphoses (esp. ch. 1-3, 9-10)

    ·      Edmonds, The State of Play: Magic