Summary
The conflict between good and evil can be found in every culture, mythical tradition, and religion throughout history. In many cases, the source of evil has been personified as demons or devils, and in many belief systems, both are considered to be real entities operating outside the boundaries of the physical world to torment people or lead them astray. In some traditions demons are believed to be the direct opposite of angels, working against the forces of good and challenging them. Real or not, demons are at the heart of many fascinating beliefs and traditions, several of which are widely held today.
The Encyclopedia of Demons and Demonology explores this dark aspect of folklore and religion and the role that demons play in the modern world. This comprehensive resource presents more than 400 entries and more than 80 black-and-white photographs documenting beliefs about demons and demonology from ancient history to the present.
Key topics covered include:
- Demons in different cultural and religious traditions
- Demons in folklore and popular culture
- Exorcism and other means of confronting demons
- Historical cases of possession and demon activity
- The history of demonology
- Magic and witchcraft
- Possession and other demonic phenomena
- Modern-day demonologists and exorcists
- Strange creatures and entities related to demons
- Types of demons.
Specifications
Black-and-white photographs and illustrations. Index. Bibliography. Cross-references. Further reading.
About the Author(s)
Rosemary Ellen Guiley is one of the leading authorities on the paranormal. She has written more than 40 nonfiction books on paranormal topics, translated into 14 languages, as well as hundreds of articles. She has appeared on numerous television, documentary, and radio shows. She is a columnist for TAPS Paramagazine and a consulting editor for FATE magazine. Guiley’s books include The Encyclopedia of Angels, Second Edition; The Encyclopedia of Ghosts and Spirits, Third Edition; The Encyclopedia of Saints; The Encyclopedia of Vampires, Werewolves, and Other Monsters; and The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft, and Wicca, Third Edition, all for Facts On File. She lives in Connecticut.
Foreword author John Zaffis is a paranormal investigator and author. He is recognized as one of the leading authorities on demonic hauntings and possession. In more than 30 years, he has worked on more than 7,000 cases internationally, including assisting in more than 90 cases of genuine demonic possession. He has worked with clergy of different faiths and has participated in exorcisms. He lives in Connecticut.