Answers To Some Commonly Asked Questions About Magic

What were the first magicians needed for?

The first magicians were more akin to religious and medicinal figures for their tribes or clansmen. The Romanian culture was comprised of many different ethnic backgrounds and lead to the term Gypsies. These traveling caravans would journey from town to town entertaining the people. Unfortunately the Gypsies were often under attack for their beliefs and practices. It was the same with many midwives or pagans who embraced a different religious viewpoint from the accepted religions of the time.

Was magic really just for witches?

As evident by many of the horrific atrocities that occurred in American history, a person associated with magic would have been labeled a witch. Whether or not this is actually true is a different story. The end result was the same. The witch would be the scapegoat of any abnormal occurrences, such as a crop dying, and ultimately be put to death.

How has the art of magic evolved over the past hundred years?

Magic has turned from a more elemental approach into that of sleight of hand. It has become a showmanship and illusion. Tricks are performed in front of an audience but the performance gives an illusion of magic when in reality there is none. Common sense practices, such as washing a wound, may have once been considered magic but now we know them to be just part of good hygiene. As humankind continues to advance, mysteries that astound us now will eventually be revealed.

Was Harry Houdini a magician?

Though he was called a magician, he technically was an illusionist and escape artist. His daring feats were accomplished by hard work and skill. His famous acts, such as escaping from a straight jacket while under water, required him to be flexible and to use a bit of subterfuge.

What is the difference between sleight of hand, illusion and magic?

While once there might have been a difference between the three, we would now consider them to be the same thing. All involve the use of illusion. The mind is told one thing, the eyes see one thing but the reality is that it's something completely different.