Lives of the Necromancers

"Lives of the Necromancers" by William Godwin is a historical account written in the early 19th century, focusing on the lives and claims of individuals throughout various ages who professed or were accused of possessing magical powers. The book explores the concept of necromancy alongside various forms of sorcery and witchcraft, highlighting humanity's long-standing fascination and credulity regarding the supernatural. The opening of Godwin’s work lays a philosophical foundation, examining the nature of human ambition and the desire to reach beyond the constraints of reality into realms of the unknown. Godwin elaborates on how this ambition has historically led people to engage in divination, augury, and other mystical practices as they sought insights into or control over the future. He discusses the interplay of human imagination and the supernatural, suggesting that our ancestors were often plagued by fear and superstition regarding witchcraft, leading to severe consequences during various historical periods, particularly with witch hunts and trials. This sets the stage for the detailed exploration of notable necromancers and the broader implications of such beliefs throughout human history.