Demonology and Devil-lore

A curious traveler through the shadows of myth, this work invites listeners to follow a nineteenth‑century scholar as he maps the bewildering world of demons and devils. Beginning with an anecdote of three friars stumbling upon a witch‑sabbath, the author sets a tone of adventure mixed with rigorous inquiry, promising a tour of folklore that spans Alpine valleys to distant continents.

The narrative unfolds as a systematic classification of the countless spectres that have haunted human imagination. By tracing recurring themes—hunger, disease, lust, cruelty—the author shows how diverse cultures carve the same fears into myriad forms, from gargoyles perched on cathedrals to serpentine cornices and ancient medals. Rich illustrations accompany the text, giving voice to figures such as Beelzebub, Japanese demons, and the mythic Hydra.

Beyond cataloguing, the book reflects on how these legendary beings have shaped religions, politics, and everyday superstitions. Listeners will come away with a clearer sense of why the devil’s lore persists and how confronting its origins can illuminate the hidden forces that still influence modern thought.