Elizabethan Demonology An Essay in Illustration of the Belief in the Existence of Devils, and the Powers Possessed By Them, as It Was Generally Held during the Period of the Reformation, and the Times Immediately Succeeding; with Special Reference to Shakspere and His Works

About this book

In an era marked by profound religious upheaval and the questioning of established norms, "Elizabethan Demonology" by Thomas Alfred Spalding examines the pervasive belief in the supernatural that shaped the cultural landscape of the Reformation. This insightful essay explores the intricate relationship between the existence of devils and the societal fears surrounding them, particularly as reflected in Shakespeare's works. Spalding meticulously illustrates how these beliefs influenced literary themes and character motivations, offering readers a unique lens into the psyche of the time. Ideal for historians and students of literature, this work provides a compelling analysis of the era's demonology and its implications on art and society, making it an essential read for anyone interested in the intersection of belief and creativity.