Charles Walter Stansby Williams (1886-1945) was an English poet, novelist, playwright, theologian and literary critic.
He worked for the Oxford University Press for most of his life and was a prominent member of the Inklings. Williams was a prolific writer, publishing numerous works of poetry, fiction, theology, and literary criticism. His most famous novels include “War in Heaven,” “The Place of the Lion,” and “Descent into Hell.” Also he was a member of the Inklings, an informal literary discussion group that included C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. He worked for many years as an editor at the Oxford University Press.
In 1941 Williams published a book titled “Witchcraft”. It was commissioned by T.S. Eliot and traces the history of witchcraft from ancient times to the Salem witch trials. The book aims to provide a balanced Christian perspective on the topic, avoiding both hysteria and propaganda. It has been reprinted several times, including a paperback edition in 1988.
Some key points about the book:
– It is considered a reasonable introduction to the history of witchcraft from a Christian point of view.
– Williams examines cases where there were factual bases for accusations of witchcraft, as well as cases of innocent victims.
– He discusses the Spanish Inquisition’s attempts to be fair, in contrast to secular authorities who were quick to condemn alleged witches
– The chapter on the Salem witch trials is particularly fascinating
While not a master stylist, Williams’ “Witchcraft” is seen as a well-researched and thoughtful work that provides an important perspective on a dark chapter of history. It is part of the body of writings that demonstrate Williams’ deep Christian faith and his ability to engage with difficult topics in a nuanced way.
Charles Williams’ “Witchcraft” is a fascinating exploration of the history of witchcraft from a Christian perspective. Williams brings his theological and literary expertise to bear on this often misunderstood subject. Rather than sensationalizing witchcraft, Williams provides a measured and insightful account of its evolution from Roman times to the Salem Witch Trials. He delves into the historical context, examining the social, religious, and political factors that contributed to the rise and fall of witch hunts.
While the book doesn’t offer much insight into modern Wiccan practices, it does provide a valuable perspective on the dangers of societal hysteria and the ways in which fear and ignorance can be manipulated. Williams writing is engaging and thought-provoking, making “Witchcraft” a worthwhile read for anyone interested in the history of this complex and often demonized subject.
The editions we recommend are certainly the first, 1941, still available at a modest price,
In a decade its value could reach also 200, or 300 €
both the M62 paperback from Meridian Books, from 1959, I believe still reprinted by Meridian in the following years, at least until 1969.
In the next years it should not be sold less than 100,00 €, that’s it.
It is a book for all collectors of esoteric books as it helps understand how modern Christians still reason, denying every truth that is not their own, conceived as factual only by them, denying the supernatural, turning it into a cruel mockery of the vile human mind. It is a book about their failure as a religion, more than a contradiction it is a mere negation of everything coming from the boundless in their own varied interests that have changed to adapt with the times. This game, therefore, will remain for those who observe it, through the eyes provided to us precisely by Williams, always such, until its complete dissolution by artifice…or maleficium.
