1847 - Fascination, or The Philosophy of Charming
This is a weird and wonderful and just utterly unique book. Dr. John B. Newman, a 19th-century physician and mesmerist, guides readers through a landscape of trances, somnambulism, hypnotism, and the enigmatic practice of "charming." He examines diverse phenomena, from snake charming and the rituals of "savage" cultures to the spiritual practices of ancient Egypt and the mystical experiences of figures like John Calvin and William Tennant. Newman doesn't merely document these occurrences; he provides insights into achieving such states, offering a glimpse into techniques for manipulating perception and influencing the mind-body connection.
The book's eclectic contents reflect the era's fascination with spiritualism, mesmerism, and the occult. Newman's exploration of "charming" extends beyond mere stage magic, touching upon the power of suggestion, the manipulation of vital energies, and the potential for harnessing unseen forces. He delves into controversial topics like the worship of Satan, the secrets of the Magi, and the dances of witches, offering a glimpse into the shadowy realms of esoteric knowledge. This book also has some downright incredible illustrations.
1847. Newman, John B. Fascination, or the Philosophy of Charming: Illustrating the Principles of Life in Connection with Spirit and Matter. New York: Fowlers and Wells, Phrenological Cabinet. First edition. 176pp. Original cloth (worn, spine chipped).
This is a weird and wonderful and just utterly unique book. Dr. John B. Newman, a 19th-century physician and mesmerist, guides readers through a landscape of trances, somnambulism, hypnotism, and the enigmatic practice of "charming." He examines diverse phenomena, from snake charming and the rituals of "savage" cultures to the spiritual practices of ancient Egypt and the mystical experiences of figures like John Calvin and William Tennant. Newman doesn't merely document these occurrences; he provides insights into achieving such states, offering a glimpse into techniques for manipulating perception and influencing the mind-body connection.
The book's eclectic contents reflect the era's fascination with spiritualism, mesmerism, and the occult. Newman's exploration of "charming" extends beyond mere stage magic, touching upon the power of suggestion, the manipulation of vital energies, and the potential for harnessing unseen forces. He delves into controversial topics like the worship of Satan, the secrets of the Magi, and the dances of witches, offering a glimpse into the shadowy realms of esoteric knowledge. This book also has some downright incredible illustrations.
1847. Newman, John B. Fascination, or the Philosophy of Charming: Illustrating the Principles of Life in Connection with Spirit and Matter. New York: Fowlers and Wells, Phrenological Cabinet. First edition. 176pp. Original cloth (worn, spine chipped).
This is a weird and wonderful and just utterly unique book. Dr. John B. Newman, a 19th-century physician and mesmerist, guides readers through a landscape of trances, somnambulism, hypnotism, and the enigmatic practice of "charming." He examines diverse phenomena, from snake charming and the rituals of "savage" cultures to the spiritual practices of ancient Egypt and the mystical experiences of figures like John Calvin and William Tennant. Newman doesn't merely document these occurrences; he provides insights into achieving such states, offering a glimpse into techniques for manipulating perception and influencing the mind-body connection.
The book's eclectic contents reflect the era's fascination with spiritualism, mesmerism, and the occult. Newman's exploration of "charming" extends beyond mere stage magic, touching upon the power of suggestion, the manipulation of vital energies, and the potential for harnessing unseen forces. He delves into controversial topics like the worship of Satan, the secrets of the Magi, and the dances of witches, offering a glimpse into the shadowy realms of esoteric knowledge. This book also has some downright incredible illustrations.
1847. Newman, John B. Fascination, or the Philosophy of Charming: Illustrating the Principles of Life in Connection with Spirit and Matter. New York: Fowlers and Wells, Phrenological Cabinet. First edition. 176pp. Original cloth (worn, spine chipped).