House Protection Magic in the Ancient World - Lecture

Fascinated by folk magic? Dr Drew Wilburn introduces introduces the charms and amulets ordinary people in ancient Greece, Rome and Egypt used to protect their homes in a lively illustrated lecture. He takes in decoration, objects and written spells,  and explains the magical logic by which they were meant to work, diving into the mechanics of keeping evil outside the thresholds. History enthusiasts will gain new insights on ancient Mediterranean beliefs, with examples from later Antiquity (mainly Pompeii, the Greek islands, and the PGM). Craft-minded magical practitioners will find useful ideas for home projects -- mindful that a home-made charm makes a great housewarming gift or Christmas present. Everyone attending is invited to stay afterward for drinks, chats and socials.

Drew Wilburn is Professor of Classics and Archaeology at Oberlin College in Ohio USA, and his research focuses on the material evidence of ritual. Publications include Materia Magica: the Archaeology of Magic in Egypt Spain and Cyprus. An archeologist, he has excavated at archaeological sites in Israel, Greece, Cyprus, and Egypt.