Science of the magical : from the holy grail to love potions to superpowers / Matt Kaplan.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Kaplan, Matt, 1977- author.

Contributor:

Dhiren H. Shah W'82 and Katherine M. Shah Fund.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Occultism and science.

Mythology.

Myth.

Folklore.

Supernatural.

Magic.

Physical Description:

246 pages : illustrations ; 24 cm

Edition:

First Scribner hardcover edition.

Place of Publication:

New York : Scribner, 2015.

Summary:

"From the author of The Science of Monsters, this engaging scientific inquiry provides a definitive look into the elements of mystical places and magical object--from the philosopher's stone, to love potions to the oracles--from ancient history, mythology, and contemporary culture. Can migrations of birds foretell our future? Do phases of the moon hold sway over our lives? Are there sacred springs that cure the ill? What is the best way to brew a love potion? How do we create mutant humans who regenerate like Wolverine? In Science of the Magical, noted science journalist Matt Kaplan plumbs the rich, lively, and surprising history of the magical objects, places, and rituals that infuse ancient and contemporary myth. Like Ken Jennings and Mary Roach, Kaplan serves as a friendly armchair guide to the world of the supernatural. From the strengthening powers of Viking mead, to the super soldiers in movies like Captain America, Kaplan ranges across cultures and time periods to point out that there is often much more to these enduring magical narratives than mere fantasy. Informative and entertaining, Science of the Magical explores our world through the compelling scope of natural and human history and cutting-edge science."-- Publisher's description.

Contents:

Healing: prayers, sacred pools, regenerations, and holy eyeliner

Transformation: into animals, berserk warriors, supersoldiers, and the other gender

Immortality and longevity: elixirs of live, holy grails, and distilled alchemist pee

Supernatural skies: sunstones, plagues, the power of planets, and summoning storms

Animals and plants as omens, guides and gods 101: Odin's wolves and ravens, death cats, talking forests, and birds that predict the weather

Prophecy: liver readers, "high" priestesses, and mind-reading devices

Beyond the grave: underworld gateways, guardians of the dead, and near death

Enchantment: love potions, sleeping drafts, mind-altering fruit, and penises pierced with stingray spines

Superhumans: savants, Buddhist monks, sword swallowers, firewalkers, and stage magicians.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references (pages [217]-236) and index.

Local Notes:

Acquired for the Penn Libraries with assistance from the Dhiren H. Shah W'82 and Katherine M. Shah Fund.

ISBN:

1476777101

9781476777108

OCLC:

904813040

Publisher Number:

99964772108