P. G. Maxwell Stuart Boeken

Of all the epithets popularly attached to the Middle Ages, 'superstitious' is perhaps the most common and most misleading. The 18th century view that the era was represented by the Catholic Church and therefore backward and 'dark', in contrast to their own times which were forward-looking, rational and 'scientific', has created a myth which successive centuries have perpetuated.This fascinating study challenges the assumption that the medieval period was an age of superstition, offering students a varied collection of documents surveying what people throughout Europe actually thought and believed about the occult sciences at the time. Using translated extracts - many of which appear in English for the first time - from religious, legal, medical and scientific documents, P. G. Maxwell-Stuart presents and explores the various branches of magic, divination, astrology and alchemy which helped people to make sense of their world.

Exploring the evolution of the Devil throughout history, this book delves into various interpretations and representations of this iconic figure from ancient times to contemporary culture. It examines how the concept of the Devil has influenced literature, religion, and societal beliefs, highlighting the shifting perceptions of evil and morality. Through a rich tapestry of anecdotes and analyses, the narrative reveals the complexities surrounding the Devil's character and the enduring fascination he holds in human consciousness.

The book explores the intense witchcraft persecution in Scotland between 1658 and 1662, a period marked by Scotland's status as an English province under foreign officials. The shift in 1660 heightened fears regarding the church and state, as the clash between English views on witchcraft and the resurgence of Calvinist fervor created a volatile environment. This unique historical context led to an unprecedented level of scrutiny and hostility towards suspected witches, reflecting the societal tensions of the time.

This text recounts the lives, deeds and misdeeds of the 264 popes from St Peter to John Paul II. The dichotomy between the awesome dignity of the holy office and the all-too-human passions and pleasures of some of the individuals who have occupied it characterizes the narrative throughout. It provides an historical overview, showing how ultimately the Papacy has moved in a circle - from self-consciously spiritual office, through embroilment in political power and back to self-conciously spritual office again. Features of the book include: quotations from contemporary sources; datafiles for every pope listing important information such as career and family relationships; lists of main events and essays on subjects such as the excavation of St Peter's tomb; and tables of Feast Days of all the canonized Popes.

Papežové : život a vláda : od sv. Petra k Janu Pavlu II. Ilustrace, mapy a portréty, bibliografie, rejstřík.