This is the truth about demons and demonology - in more than 400 entries. 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. The 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; and, Types of demons.

Reviews

Guiley has written many books within the context of folklore, myths, and religion and is considered one of the leading authorities on the paranormal. Her web site (www.visionaryliving.com) provides a wide variety of information on the topics explored in her books. The Encyclopedia of Witches, Witchcraft and Wicca (2008) and The Encyclopedia of Angels (2004), both published by Facts On File, represent some of her more traditional writing. Moving into the paranormal, this encyclopedia delineates beliefs about demons and demonology. The text emerges from an exploration of the darker aspects of folklore, myths, culture, and religion, covering major issues, people, and events in a historical and phenomenological perspective. Its over 400 A-to-Z entries cover topics such as demons in different cultures and religious traditions, possession, exorcism, and demon types. With cross-references, brief bibliographies at the end of a major treatment of a topic, a general bibliography, a general index, and 80 black-and-white images, the work strives to be seen as scholarly, and much research has been done to bring it to life. Still, the inclusion of specific indexes-a name index, a chronological index of events, and an index listing demons alphabetically-as well as a glossary would have boosted its reference value. BOTTOM LINE Clear, concise, and balanced, this will attract a range of nonscholarly audiences, especially those interested in the occult, paranormal, folklore, myths, and religion. A solid addition to public libraries.-Marianne E. Giltrud, Catholic Univ. of America Libs., Washington, DC Copyright 2009 Reed Business Information.