Summa Sacre Magice: Book 1: a transcription, critical edition & translation of Berengar Ganell's magnum opus on magic from 1346.

One of the most substantial and historically significant works of medieval magic, the Summa Sacre Magice presents a complete and practical system of ritual operations drawn from a wide range of earlier traditions.Compiled in the fourteenth century and attributed to the magus Berengar Ganell, this text remained virtually unknown until its modern rediscovery in the late twentieth century. It has since emerged as a major source for understanding the structure and practice of medieval ritual magic.This edition by Sneddon and Erneus provides a careful transcription of the original Latin manuscript alongside a clear and faithful English translation in a facing-page format. Extensive notes and commentary situate the work within its historical, philosophical, and magical context, making it accessible without sacrificing scholarly precision.In addition to the core text, this volume includes the Magisterium treatise attributed to Ganell, a substantial introduction, and appendices that clarify the structure, sources, and practical application of the system.Endorsements“This new edition of Book 1 of the Summa Sacre Magice, arguably the most important magical work of the last millennium, presents the material in an extremely accessible form with a scholarly attention to detail and context that both enhances and elucidates the material contained within… an absolutely essential book to have in your library.”— David Rankine“This important and interesting text is a treasure trove of historical magic practices… Sneddon and Erneus include a careful transcription of the original Latin text, along with a clear and understandable English translation… copious notes, enabling casual readers, practitioners, and scholars alike to dig deep into the text.”— Joseph H. Peterson Read more