The decline of magic was gradual and uneven across different regions from "summary" of Religion and the Decline of Magic by Keith Thomas
Magic did not disappear overnight; its decline was a slow process that varied from place to place. The change was not uniform across different regions, as some areas held onto magical beliefs and practices longer than others. The decline of magic was influenced by a variety of factors, including religious reforms, changes in social attitudes, and advancements in science and technology. In some regions, the decline of magic was more pronounced, as religious authorities actively sought to suppress magical practices that they deemed heretical or superstitious. The rise of Protestantism, for example, led to a rejection of Catholic rituals and beliefs, which included many forms of magic. Protestant reformers viewed magic as a form of idolatry and sought to eradicate it from their communities. On the other hand, in areas where Catholicism remained dominant, magical practices continued to coexist alongside official religious beliefs. The Catholic Church, while condemning certain forms of magic, also incorporated elements of magical thinking into its own rituals and practices. This syncretism allowed for the continued popularity of magic in Catholic regions, even as it waned in Protestant ones. In addition to religious influences, social attitudes played a role in the decline of magic. As societies became more urbanized and interconnected, traditional magical beliefs began to lose their relevance. The growth of cities brought with it new forms of entertainment and leisure activities that competed with magical practices for people's attention. Advancements in science and technology also contributed to the decline of magic. The rise of empirical methods of inquiry and the spread of scientific knowledge served to debunk many magical beliefs and practices. As people became more educated and exposed to new ideas, they began to question the validity of magical thinking.- The decline of magic was a complex and multifaceted process that unfolded gradually over time. It was not a uniform phenomenon, as different regions experienced the decline of magic in varying degrees and at different rates. Ultimately, a combination of religious, social, and intellectual factors contributed to the gradual disappearance of magical beliefs and practices from Western society.
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