Phantasmagoria

About

Collections to be shown in the Library include 16th century Bellarmine jars, used for defence again witchcraft, a book of spells attributed to King Solomon, books on occult philosophy mentioned in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein, a Physician’s notebook on how to examine a Witch and counter arguments proving compacts and contracts of witches with devils are imaginary. Artist and Assistant Librarian Frank Waterton will bring our collections to life by creating a Phantasmagoria, using illustrations from our early printed material and there will be a screening of scenes from Benjamin Christensen 1922 movie Häxan: witchcraft through the ages.

Author and Professional Storyteller Wendy Shearer will share Caribbean folklore and stories about the enchantress La Diablesse, whose name means ‘female devil’. In this talk, you will find out how some witches do not always wait for darkness to use their sinister powers, some appear right beside us during the day. La Diablesse can easily be mistaken for a beguiling woman dressed in clothing familiar with the French Antilles. But her true nature is hidden beneath her long skirts and behind the patois rhythm of her duplicitous spells.

You will have the opportunity to make personalised Witch Mark badges with Artist and Finance Officer Esther Heyhoe, using the 17th century magic symbols carved into the walls of Kelmscott Manor.  You can purchase Halloween themed cocktails throughout the evening.

Visit our website for more information: https://www.sal.org.uk/event/phantasmagoria/