FAQ About Magic in the Middle Ages

Yes, there were several magical texts and grimoires that were commonly used and circulated during the Middle Ages. These books contained instructions, spells, rituals, and invocations for practicing various forms of magic. Many of these texts drew from a mix of traditions, including ancient Egyptian, Greco-Roman, Arabic, Jewish, and Christian sources. Here are some well-known magical texts and grimoires from the Middle Ages:

• Picatrix: Also known as "The Picatrix," this is a comprehensive grimoire that originated in the Arabic world and was translated into Latin in the 13th century. It covers a wide range of magical practices, including astrology, talismanic magic, and summoning of spirits.
• The Key of Solomon: Attributed to the biblical King Solomon, this grimoire provides instructions for summoning angels and demons, creating magical tools, and performing rituals. It is one of the most famous and influential medieval magical texts.
• The Lesser Key of Solomon (Lemegeton): This is a compilation of several shorter grimoires, including "Ars Goetia," which presents a list of 72 demons along with their descriptions and instructions for summoning them.
• The Book of Abramelin: This grimoire, attributed to Abraham the Jew, provides instructions for contacting one's guardian angel and obtaining magical powers through a lengthy ritual process.
• The Grimoire of Pope Honorius: A 13th-century grimoire attributed to Pope Honorius III, this book contains various magical operations, including the summoning of spirits and the performance of spells.
• The Greater Key of Solomon: A larger and more comprehensive version of "The Key of Solomon," this grimoire includes additional rituals and magical operations.
• Arbatel de magia veterum (The Arbatel of Magic): A Renaissance-era grimoire, the Arbatel focuses on the practice of natural magic, morality, and communication with angels.
• Heptameron: Attributed to Pietro d'Abano, this grimoire contains instructions for working with angels and performing rituals over seven days.
• The Book of Raziel: This magical text is said to contain the angel Raziel's teachings to Adam, offering insights into the hidden mysteries of the universe and divine knowledge.
• The Book of the Sacred Magic of Abramelin the Mage: A variant of "The Book of Abramelin," this grimoire contains ritual instructions for contacting one's Holy Guardian Angel.