Alpine Witchery

Christian Brunner (Arlington, MA) has studied shamanism for more than forty years and naturopathic methods for almost thirty. These experiences encouraged his deep fascination for the Alpine lore and traditions in his native Austria. He has authored Mountain Magic and several articles for druid order journals, such as Touchstone, Druidenstein, and Trilithon. He is also a druid in the Order of Bard, Ovates & Druids. Visit him at ChristianBrunner.com. Danu Forest is a traditional Celtic wisewoman who has studied on the Celtic path for over thirty years. She is noted for her many years of experience, her gifts as a natural hereditary seer, and her scholarly research. She lives in the wild marshes surrounding the legendary Glastonbury Tor and is the author of several books, including Celtic Tree Magic: Ogham Lore and Druid Mysteries. She holds an MA in Celtic Studies.

"This book is a delicious fusion of impeccable research, fine scholarship, and deep vision. Brunner effortlessly combines history with practice in a fascinating and compelling manner that will have you glued to every page. I could not put this book down; every chapter contains jewels of information that has opened a new and refreshing door onto an Alpine magical landscape that you will never forget. The inclusion of historical spells with instructions on how they can be replicated in a manner applicable to 21st-century practice is sheer genius. What you have in your hands is sure to become a classic of central European magical history and practice."—Kristoffer Hughes, Chief of the Anglesey Druid Order, author of The Book of Druidry"An absolute treasure trove of historical magic, informed by a deep cultural understanding, this book is not to be missed. Rather than a dry recounting, the charms within are brought to life with suggestions for use today, as well as insights into the lives of those through whose words they were transmitted to us. An invaluable addition to any bookshelf, and certainly a work I will return to time and again."—Moss Matthey, author of An Apostate's Guide to Witchcraft "Brunner presents an in-depth historic and practical study of ancient and syncretic traditions from a region that has remained largely unexplored by the English-speaking world. The citations and analyses of the records of witchcraft trials provide the history and context for the cultural experiences of the Alpine peoples. The examination of the similarities and differences in beliefs and actions throughout the region demonstrate the value of Brunner's work, including to researchers in the Germanic diaspora. The uses, spells, and magical instructions serve as useful guides for the modern practitioner of magical systems, Germanic or otherwise. This is an excellent resource that is poised to serve as a reference point for Hexerei practitioners anywhere!"—Robert Schreiwer, Heathen activist and manager of Huginn's Heathen Hof"This is a fascinating book exploring court evidence of Alpine witchcraft. It's the most interesting witchcraft book I've ever read and is as likely to appeal to people interested in history and folklore as it is to practicing witches."—Nimue Brown, author of Spirituality Without Structure

• ContentsForeword—xiIntroduction—1Chapter 1: Who Were "the Witches" Anyway?—9Chapter 2: Making the Old New—33Chapter 3: Some Witchcraft Practice—51Chapter 4: Healing Magic—65Chapter 5: Weather Magic—97Chapter 6: Livestock Magic—131Chapter 7: Love and Jealousy Magic—159Chapter 8: Curses and Binding Spells—181Chapter 9: Spells for All Kinds of Situations—219Conclusion: So Mote It Be—249Appendix: List of Ingredients—257Bibliography—263