Georgi Mishev est un auteur et chercheur bulgare dont l'œuvre explore les cultures et religions antiques de la Méditerranée, avec un accent particulier sur les pratiques et rituels magiques au sein du folklore balkanique. Son érudition, enrichie par des observations personnelles et des conversations avec des praticiens magiques contemporains, pénètre les racines profondes de la culture traditionnelle bulgare. Mishev met à profit son expertise en philologie slave et germanique pour relier les traditions magiques écrites à travers divers peuples. Ses recherches, qui couvrent des influences allant des anciens Papyrus Magiques Grecs aux pratiques rituelles hittites, offrent une perspective unique sur l'intersection de l'histoire et de la magie.
Opens up the treasure trove of folklore and magical practices of the Balkan Peninsula into the English language for the first time. The author examines the magical practices of modern day Bulgaria and the surrounding Balkan countries, tracing them to their roots in the ritual traditions of Thrace and the Mystery Cults of the ancient world
Insights into the use of water and herbs in traditional healing practices in the Balkans
Exploring the intersection of nature and healing, the book delves into traditional Bulgarian washing rituals that harness the power of water and magical plants. These rituals, rooted in folklore, serve as remedies for various ailments, including fever and infertility, while also addressing emotional and spiritual concerns like fear and the evil eye. Local nature spirits, such as zmey and samodivas, play a significant role in these practices, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Balkans.