Cyprianus: St. Cyprian and the Black Book in Scandinavian Folklore — Simone Kotva

Cyprianus grimoire, Scandinavian folk magic, St Cyprian

Cyprianus: St. Cyprian and the Black Book in Scandinavian Folklore by Simone Kotva explores the mysterious place of the Cyprianus within Scandinavian folklore, where the legendary Black Book became synonymous with sorcery, forbidden knowledge and dealings with supernatural powers.

Drawing upon Danish legends collected in the second half of the nineteenth century by folklorist Evald Tang Kristensen, this fascinating study presents translations of traditional accounts surrounding the Cyprianus. The stories portray the grimoire as a dangerous and powerful book, associated with familiar spirits, supernatural knowledge and those daring enough to read from its pages.

The legends also reveal a shifting image of St. Cyprian himself. In Scandinavian tradition, the enigmatic author of the Black Book appears in different forms and genders, while other tales describe attempts to deceive, outwit or banish the Devil. These narratives provide a valuable folkloric context for understanding the Scandinavian Cyprianus tradition beyond the modern translations of individual Black Books.

For students of Scandinavian folk magic, practitioners of traditional sorcery and collectors of historical occult literature, this volume offers an illuminating bridge between folklore and grimoire tradition. Rather than presenting the Cyprianus solely as a magical text, Simone Kotva places it within the stories, beliefs and cultural imagination that gave the Black Book its enduring reputation.

A valuable addition to any collection devoted to the Cyprianus grimoire, Scandinavian magic, European folklore and the historical study of St. Cyprian traditions.

Premium Production Details

Author: Simone Kotva

Publisher: Hadean Press

Binding: Hardcover

Pages: 124

ISBN: 978-1-915933-73-7