Edward Elgar Publishing Ltd Bewitching Consumer Culture (English,...

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The witch figure has long inspired fear and fascination, and the witch-hunts and widespread persecution of women over time have made the witch a powerful figure for feminism. This book explores the growing interest in witchcraft in the marketplace, revealing how the witch has evolved into a feminist heroine for our times. Commencing with a historical overview of the witch imaginary in Europe during the 'burning times', the authors analyse the various manifestations of the witch in the contemporary marketplace. Chapters explore the witch in popular culture, witchcraft in Glastonbury and two popular forms of witchcraft - green and glamorous. Stevens and Maclaran also examine the figure of the crone as a powerful archetype for post-menopausal women and consider the power of covens as a means of feminist solidarity. Through adopting a multi-media approach, this book assesses both the problems associated with the marketisation of witchcraft and the opportunities for reclamation. Bewitching Consumer Culture is an enlightening read for scholars and students of marketing, consumer culture, critical management and gender and management studies. Its focus on witchcraft, market forces and feminism will also make this prime readership for those interested in women's studies, new spiritualities and popular culture.