Alchemy Astrology & Occult

One of the earliest books
against the polular belief in witchcraft
17. SCOT, Reginald and Thomas and Govert BA SSON (translators).
Ondecking van tovery.
(Colophon: Leiden, Willem Christiaens, 1637). 8vo. With an engraved title-page by
Experiens Sillemans, and 2 full-page engraved portraits of Jeanne d’Arc. Contemporary
vellum. € 4.950
Second and enlarged edition of the rare Dutch translation of one of the most famous and
earliest books against the popular belief in witchcraft. “It was England’s first major work
on demonology and witchcraft and it was unashamedly and unapologetically sceptical. But
paradoxically, the comprehensive account of magic, witchcraft and legerdemain contained
in The discoverie of witchcraft fostered European demonologies in England, helped the spread
of indigenous witchcraft traditions, and inaugurated the English tradition of secular magic
and conjuring” (Almond). Scot stated that belief in witchcraft was both irrational and irreligious,
explaining and unmasking many old conjuring tricks, and was far ahead of his
time by stating that spiritual manifestations were either willful imposture or due to mental
disturbance.
A small stain in the margin of the title-page, a minor waterstain in the gutter of the last 50
pages, and some occasional small spots. Otherwise a very good copy.
P.C. Almond, England’s first demonologist (2015), p. 2; Coumont, Demonology and Witchcraft S38.14; STCN (7 copies);
Thorndike VI, pp. 529–531; WorldCat (1 other copy).