This book looked at the so called wizards of history- famous figures and more obscure trailblazers who by using what we would consider occult practices attempted to unravel the mysteries and secrets of life. The first section explored ‘Prehistoric and Mythic Magic’ specifically focusing on the Lion Man which was very interesting and something I never knew about prior to reading this book. Section two examined ‘Pre-socratic Sorcerers of Ancient Greece,’ which was a dryer section but still interesting nonetheless. Finally, the third section looked at ‘The Western Alchemical Tradition’ which I found to be the most fascinating, especially the stories about the Islamic alchemists and the chapter on James Price. A good portion of the book focused on philosophers whose theories about the existence of humanity are in many ways considered magical, for how they were able to come to such conclusions is truly astonishing.

The book contained some personal magical experiences of author Guy Ogilvy, which were a little eerie, but certainly helped to bring a sense of realism to the overall book. This book was also well sourced and I liked that large sections of primary sources were included in the chapters as well. I jotted down many notes and obscure facts that I want to research further which is quite exciting.

Overall this was a fascinating book and even though I never would have called Pythagoras or Epimenides “wizards,” if a wizard is someone who is wise, than yes, after reading this book, I also agree that these individuals possessed so much wisdom, that they were indeed magical.

I received this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. 

The Great Wizards of Antiquity is a journey through the world of magic starting from pre-history all the way to now. I really enjoyed many things about this book. The chapters about the Lion man and Orpheus are my favorite. I love mythology, so all the details involved around Orpheus and the cults to him and Dionysus are definitely my favorite parts. We also learn so much about Pythagoras who I never really knew much about except what I learned taking math courses in school. We spend a lot of time in the realm of the Greeks and finally towards the end of the novel fly through the history of Alchemy. I really liked the attention to detail and some of the overviews the author discussed. I also really enjoyed aspects like breaking down words to discover their meanings as a way to understand the topic more. I even enjoyed the personal stories that the author discussed as a way of backing up his points.

The problems I had with this books are that sometimes I felt like the author discussed things too in depth for the length of the book. We get one chapter on pre-history. Then over half the book is about the Greeks. We get nothing from Egypt or Mesopotamia or other ancient cultures. Egypt is alluded too some but I wanted more. Also we get a tiny chapter about Islam and Alchemy and then fly through the rest. Just made the book feel rushed toward the end. The author alludes to another volume about Great Wizards, maybe there we will get more discussion of other cultures and the balance will be better.

Overall I feel like this is a really strong book for anyone interested in the topic of history, magic, alchemy or Ancient Greek mystic cults. I enjoyed the experience. 3.5 Stars

First, sorry for my possible English mistakes.
Now, this is one very interesting book, author is excellent to explain some puzzling ideas from ancient wisdom! It is slightly more about mysticism and alchemy than magic but one can understand through the text how those methods are connected. Anyway, if you ever started to have doubts about alchemy, esoteric disciplines and sim...if you ever felt to be brainwashed with modern rational science conclusions and sim...then this book will be fresh reload and insight of infinite truths! Author presents new look at some enigmatic writings from the past, and offer us keys for better understanding. My favorite parts were about Parmenides, Paracelsus and few more...Maybe this book is too short but author promises second part, but that last chapter was clever move so that after reading it we can "invoke the dream of beauty"...with "who is that ?" I will finish...

I loved this book of practitioners of alchemy and sorcery. The stories with the names are fascinating. Names we hear of or have seen in books come alive with the author's writings. Reading of the beliefs and even the fears they felt from the people who didn't understand make this a book that should be on anyone's shelf who enjoy this subject. There are footnotes and websites listed to help understand and to find more information which I definitely appreciate. This book takes you on a journey thru time to learn about those who come before. I received this book from Net Galley and Llewellyn Publications for a honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Ogilvy's book is a fantastic journey through magic and alchemy beginning with the Lion Man statue and ending with today's alchemy. Everything is well researched and presented in such a way as to entice readers to explore further. I was particularly fascinated by the chapter titled: Plague-Busters, Skywalkers, and Time-travellers.

Thank you NetGalley and Llewellyn Publications for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy. I cannot wait to see a completed version with images included.

The history of sorcery comes alive with these unique portraits of some of the most remarkable, infamous, and colorful practitioners of magic and alchemy. Join author Guy Ogilvy as he reveals the fascinating beliefs, techniques and powers mastered by these influential figures. Beginning with the prehistoric culture of the Lion Man, continuing through the great mythical figures such as Orpheus the pre- Socratic Greeks such as Pythagoras and Aristeas of Proconnesus, and following the trail up to the great alchemists of the Middle Ages and beyond, this book is a treasure trove of information, from antiquity to the Renaissance, The Great Wizards Of History is a profound exploration of ideas and practices that were often contested or condemned even as they demonstrated the brilliant results of magical practice.