Magicians, Ghosts, Amulets, and Spells: Daniel Ogden on Græco-Roman Magic

In this episode of the "Schweppe, the Secret History of Western Esotericism" podcast, host Earl Fontainelle interviews Professor Daniel Ogden about magic in the ancient Greek and Roman world. They discuss the etymology and usage of terms like "magos" and "goaes," exploring their evolution and connotations. Ogden explains the various sources of information on ancient magic, including literary texts, magical papyri, curse tablets, amulets, and voodoo dolls. The conversation covers the nature of ghosts in Greco-Roman culture, their role in magic, and the pervasive belief in their existence. They also delve into the concept of Greek shamans, their connection to the Pythagorean tradition, and the phenomenon of "voces magicae," exploring their potential origins and transformations from meaningful phrases to seemingly meaningless incantations.