Graeco-Roman Love-Magic: it's Function and Equipment

Abstract

The two main purposes of this study are the examination of the functions of Graeco-Roman love-magic both as a social phenomenon and as a practical art, and the discussion of specific implements, materiae magicae, and practices used within the art. To this end, the functional aspects of the art are to be discussed first, in order to allow a basic understanding of the reasons for the existence of love-magic. After this discussion are specific chapters relating to individual magical objects and practices. The chapters have been placed in such an order that the fourth chapter deals with a subject that refers to many of the aspects discussed and interpreted in the following chapters, providing a platform upon which to base subsequent discussions. As each chapter builds upon its predecessor, an overall cohesion is anticipated that will allow a difficult subject to be more easily understood. Within each chapter and sub-chapter, where relevant, the physical functions of the object under discussion will be interpreted in the light of ancient and contemporary practices and anthropological observation. Where I believe it is warranted, I have made use of source material dealing with contemporary witchcraft methods, and whilst I claim no direct Graeco-Roman precedent for these methods I make no apology for their inclusion as useful material for analogy. Each chapter and sub-chapter will provide its own conclusions, though a final conclusion will also be included. Two appendices have been added to the overall work; both appendices are relevant to, but difficult to include within, the main body of the text. Appendix B is in diary format, and relates a factual incident, whereby a Graeco-Roman implement that was made by the author was used with success by a woman for love-magical purposes. A substantial bibliography provides the details of works cited within the text and footnotes. In some cases, bibliographical information for primary sources is not included. The thesis is illustrated throughout and the specific references to these illustrations are to be found in brackets inserted within the text at the relevant topic to which they refer.