Magic and Medicines #21: Spiritualism

Magic and Medicines is BACK - just like the ooky-spooky ghosts summoned up by believers in this episode's topic - Spiritualism!

As we discuss, philosophically speaking 'Spiritualism' is a big old tradition, involving any belief system rooted in concepts of souls, spirits, or supernatural forces.

In the 19th century however, during the Second Great Awakening in upstate New York, Spiritualist ideas from a range of Revivalist traditions combined to make something new.

Exploding in popularity following America's Civil War, then booming again in Britain after the Great War, new generations of 'Mediums' had come forth, channeling ghosts and cosmic forces in ways that would have been recognisable in Prophets, Holy Maids and Cunning Folk from the Ancient, Medieval and Renaissance eras.

Which is to say, Necromancy was back after a rebrand - and so were its enemies, in the forms of debunkers, prosecutors, and many a Society of Psychical Research.

From rapping tables to sudden splurges of ectoplasm, Spiritualist manifestos to Harry Houdini hunting severed hands hidden in delicate places, this one has it all.

So, turn off the lights, light some candles, and let's all hold hands...

Is there anybody there?!

Three Ravens is an English Myth and Folklore podcast hosted by award-winning writers Martin Vaux and Eleanor Conlon.

Released on Mondays, each weekly episode focuses on one of England's 39 historic counties, exploring the history, folklore and traditions of the area, from ghosts and mermaids to mythical monsters, half-forgotten heroes, bloody legends, and much, much more. Then, and most importantly, the pair take turns to tell a new version of an ancient story from that county - all before discussing what that tale might mean, where it might have come from, and the truths it reveals about England's hidden past...

Bonus Episodes are released on Thursdays plus Local Legends episodes on Saturdays - interviews with acclaimed authors, folklorists, podcasters and historians with unique perspectives on that week's county.

With a range of exclusive content on Patreon, too, including audio ghost tours, the Three Ravens Newsletter, and monthly Three Ravens Film Club episodes about folk horror films from across the decades, why not join us around the campfire and listen in?

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