The exploration of magic during the Renaissance period reveals a captivating intersection with science, as illustrated in Rachel Morris”s latest work, “The Years of the Wizard.” The book delves into an era when magic was regarded not merely as entertainment but as a legitimate field of inquiry, embraced by some of the most brilliant minds of the time.
One notable figure is John Damian, who served as an alchemist to James IV of Scotland. Within the confines of Stirling Castle, he constructed wings in an audacious attempt to fly from the castle”s ramparts. Although his ambition led to a broken thigh, it reflected the era”s acceptance of such pursuits. In fact, the fascination with alchemy during the 16th century was mirrored by the scientific inquiries of Sir Isaac Newton.
The book also highlights the influential role of John Dee, a prominent adviser to Elizabeth I. Dee was not only a magician but also a mathematician whose calculations enabled English sailors to navigate to the New World. His pursuits included alchemy, dream interpretations, and astrology, with his crystal ball and black obsidian mirror now housed in the British Museum. Uniquely, Dee maintained the largest private library in England, organizing his collection in a manner that was quite unconventional for his time.
Dee”s belief system and practices were indicative of the broader magical beliefs prevalent in Elizabethan society. Wizards of this period held strong convictions in astrology, perpetual motion devices, and even the use of physical objects, such as bottles embedded in walls to trap witches. While elite magicians employed sophisticated methods like the “sieve and shears” to divine answers, common folk often sought the help of “cunning folk” for potions and charms aimed at love or protection.
As Morris explores the motivations behind these beliefs, she posits that devices like the “celestial globe,” which allowed users to manipulate a model of the stars, provided a sense of control over their environment, a notion that was undoubtedly appealing. However, skepticism also arises, particularly regarding the practices of magicians like Dee and his scryer, Edward Kelley, who claimed to communicate with angels on Dee”s behalf. Morris raises questions about Kelley”s intentions and mental state, pondering whether he was deceiving Dee, under the influence of substances, or simply looking to profit.
The mysterious practices of magicians were not limited to intellectual pursuits; they often included tricks that blurred the line between belief and illusion. For instance, the German magician Heinrich Cornelius Agrippa was rumored to have paid his bills with coins that appeared to be gold but later transformed into horn. Such tales invite readers to consider the fine balance between genuine belief in magic and the cleverness of trickery.
“The Years of the Wizard” invites readers to reflect on a time when the boundaries between magic and science were not as rigid as they are today. Morris”s examination of this era serves as a reminder of the complex interplay between belief, knowledge, and the human desire for understanding.
