This fascinating collection investigates the origins of our most intriguing supe
rstitions, many of which we still observe today. Hundreds of the beliefs passed
down through the generations have their foundations in our ancestors' efforts to
ward off evil, which they blamed for hardship, illness and injustice in times w
hen life was, as often as not, 'nasty, brutish and short'. Black Cats and Evil E
yes sets these superstitions in their historical and social context, explaining
how fear of the Devil, demons, evil spirits and witchcraft drove people to arm t
hemselves with rituals and talismans to repel dark forces and allow them to live
long and healthy lives.
