Magic: White and Black, or The Science of Finite and Infinite Life

5b Franz Hartman. Chicago; de Laurence, Scott & Co., 1910.

Notes

Magic: White and Black, or The Science of Finite and Infinite Life (first published in 1886) by Franz Hartmann is a foundational text of 19th-century occult philosophy that explores the dual nature of magic as both a spiritual science and moral discipline. Hartmann presents magic not as stage illusion or superstition, but as the practical application of spiritual laws governing both the visible and invisible worlds. He distinguishes between white magic—the use of divine will and knowledge for good and spiritual growth—and black magic—the selfish or harmful manipulation of those same forces. Drawing on Hermeticism, alchemy, Eastern mysticism, and Theosophy, Hartmann argues that the universe is a living organism animated by a divine principle, and that by mastering oneself, one learns to master nature. The work blends mysticism with early metaphysical psychology, portraying true magic as the art of aligning the human will with universal law.

Franz Hartmann (1838–1912) was a German physician, Theosophist, and contemporary of Helena Blavatsky who helped shape the early Theosophical movement and later co-founded the German Theosophical Society. His writings sought to reconcile science, religion, and occultism, positioning magic as a bridge between the material and spiritual worlds. Magic: White and Black was among his most influential works, reprinted many times and translated widely, making occult philosophy accessible to a Western audience hungry for spiritual alternatives during the late Victorian era. The book’s enduring appeal lies in its rational, almost scientific tone—offering a moral and metaphysical framework for understanding good and evil, spirit and matter, and the evolution of the soul.

Description

Black cloth binding with gilt lettering  on spine and cover with gilt design on upper board. Pictorial frontispiece of the author and Parabrahm illustration few pages later. Some separation at upper spine. Very good condition.