“The function of magic is to ritualize man‘s optimism, to enhance his faith in the victory of hope over fear.” (B. Malinowski) Even though Malinowski’s concept did not remain uncontested, his perception of magic as the human mind’s answer to uncontrollable or even dangerous situations is inspiring still today.

The conference “Battle Magic” will take those forms of magic into perspective that deal with one of the most uncontrollable and stressful circumstances possibly encountered: physical combat.

In this regard, the term “battle magic” is to be understood only as an anchor point. The conference invites presentations on all forms of “supernatural” support for physical combat.

Even though the conference will be held as part of the event program for the Klingenmuseum’s current exhibition “Steel and Magic. Edged Weapons of the Malay Archipelago”, topics from all times, areas, and cultural backgrounds are welcome.

For further information on content and participation, please see the CfP (URL below).