Modern Magic

In this episode of Bookshapers, Anna Faherty and Judith Watts delve into the story of Angelo Lewis, a Victorian barrister who, under the pseudonym Professor Hoffman, wrote "Modern Magic," a comprehensive guide to conjuring. Despite lacking a formal background in magic, Lewis's meticulous research and clear instructions, coupled with Routledge's savvy publishing strategy, transformed him from an unknown into a celebrated figure in the magic community. The hosts discuss the book's impact on popularizing magic, its detailed illustrations, and Lewis's motivations for revealing the secrets of the trade, which sparked controversy but ultimately ushered in a new golden age of magic. They also explore the broader themes of access to knowledge and the parallels between conjuring and storytelling, highlighting how Lewis's work challenged the status quo and left a lasting legacy.