Moncure D. Conway 
Demonology and Devil Lore 

Moncure D. Conway’s ‘Demonology and Devil Lore’ is a comprehensive and meticulously researched exploration of the history and beliefs surrounding demons and the devil. Written in a scholarly and analytical style, Conway delves into various mythologies, religious texts, and historical accounts to provide a deep understanding of the origins and evolution of demonology. Drawing on his background in theology and philosophy, Conway examines the cultural significance of demons and their portrayal in literature, art, and folklore, placing them within the broader context of human spirituality and the supernatural. Moncure D. Conway, a prominent Unitarian minister and abolitionist, was deeply interested in the intersection of religion, philosophy, and social justice. His intellectual curiosity and dedication to seeking truth are evident in ‘Demonology and Devil Lore’, as he challenges readers to question preconceived notions about good and evil. Conway’s progressive views and commitment to intellectual inquiry shine through in this seminal work, making it a must-read for anyone interested in the complexities of spiritual beliefs and the human psyche. For readers fascinated by the intersection of theology, mythology, and cultural history, Moncure D. Conway’s ‘Demonology and Devil Lore’ offers a thought-provoking and enlightening journey into the shadowy realms of the supernatural. This book is a compelling exploration of the enduring fascination with demons and the devil, inviting readers to engage with profound philosophical questions about the nature of evil and the human experience.

关于作者

Moncure Daniel Conway (1832–1907) was an eminent American abolitionist, Unitarian clergyman, and writer. Born in Stafford County, Virginia, Conway was deeply influenced by the antislavery sentiment of his times, which is evident throughout his prolific literary career. Educated at Harvard Divinity School, Conway moved beyond his early religious convictions to become a freethinker and an advocate for women’s rights and free thought. In his noteworthy book ‘Demonology and Devil Lore’ (1879), Conway explored the cultural and psychological significance of demons and the devil in mythology and religion, reflecting his extensive knowledge of history and his intense interest in folklore and the supernatural. His scholarship was ambitious, aiming to demystify the origins and impacts of demonology on civilization. Though lesser-known today, Conway’s corpus of work, which includes over 70 books and numerous essays, examines critical and often controversial themes like slavery, social reform, and religion, marking him as a pivotal figure in nineteenth-century American literature and thought. His enduring legacy continues through his contributions to the landscape of American intellectual history, where his works continue to be of interest to students of history, religious studies, and sociology.