BOOK BRIEF

Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia

Valerie A. Kivelson
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Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2013

Book Brief

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Valerie A. Kivelson

Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2013
Book Details
Pages

376

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Russia • 17th century

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia by Valerie A. Kivelson examines individuals accused of witchcraft, investigating the societal, cultural, and economic contexts influencing these allegations. The book highlights the interplay between power, fear, and desperation in shaping witchcraft narratives during this period, providing insights into the lived experiences and moral complexities faced by those involved.

Informative

Mysterious

Dark

Unnerving

Reviews & Readership

4.4

47 ratings

89%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

0%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia by Valerie A. Kivelson offers a richly detailed exploration of witchcraft trials and their socio-economic contexts. Critics commend its thorough research and fascinating insights into Slavic culture. However, some find the narrative occasionally dense. The book is a valuable resource for understanding Russian history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Desperate Magic: The Moral Economy of Witchcraft in Seventeenth-Century Russia?

Readers interested in early modern history, Russian culture, or witchcraft studies would enjoy Desperate Magic. Comparable to works like Roper's Witch Craze, it appeals to those fascinated by social dynamics and moral economies in historical contexts.

4.4

47 ratings

89%

Loved it

11%

Mixed feelings

0%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

376

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Russia • 17th century

Publication Year

2013

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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