Binding Words: Textual Amulets in the Middle Ages

by Don C. Skemer

Book Overview

In the Middle Ages, textual amulets--short texts written on parchment or paper and worn on the body--were thought to protect the bearer against enemies, to heal afflictions caused by demonic invasions, and to bring the wearer good fortune. In Binding Words, Don C. Skemer provides the first book-length study of this once-common means of harnessing the magical power of words.

Textual amulets were a unique source of empowerment, promising the...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0271027231
• ISBN13: 9780271027234
• Release Date: February 2006
• Publisher: Penn State University Press
• Length: 336 Pages
• Weight: 1.20 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 6.4" x 9.3"