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Objects of Wonder, Instruments of Prophecy: The Mystical Life of Curiosity Cabinets
Sibyl discusses the relationship between cabinets of curiosities and divination practices, a fascinating intersection of Renaissance knowledge-seeking and mystical tradition. These collections, which flourished from the 16th through 18th centuries, functioned as sophisticated instruments…
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The Divinatory Architecture of Time in Kate Mosse’s “Sepulchre”: Fortunetelling & Fiction Series
This post discusses Kate Mosse’s Sepulchre, examining tarot’s intricate role as a structural and thematic device linking narratives from 1891 and 2007. It explores how tarot illuminates themes of history, identity, and inheritance, positioning…
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Tarot, Class, and Magic in Susanna Clarke’s “Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell”: Fortunetelling & Fiction Series
This post is the third in a series exploring the integration of tarot and fortune-telling in literary fiction, focusing on Susanna Clarke’s Jonathan Strange & Mr. Norrell. It examines how tarot reflects class divisions…
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Fortunetelling & Fiction: Italo Calvino’s The Castle of Crossed Destinies & Tarot as Radical Language
This post explores tarot and fortunetelling as literary devices, focusing on Italo Calvino’s “The Castle of Crossed Destinies.” The novel employs tarot as its primary narrative structure, allowing characters to communicate through visuals. This…
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Fortunetelling & Fiction: A New Series on Tarot as a Literary Device
Authors have utilized tarot cards throughout literature for their rich symbolism and narrative potential, transcending mere divination. The cards serve as essential tools for plot development and thematic exploration, evident in works like T.S.…
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The Wandering Fool: An Aesthetic Politics in Progress
The Fool card in tarot, evolving from Le Mat to contemporary interpretations, signifies a profound transformation in esoteric philosophy. Its unique position outside the hierarchy reflects liminality and challenges social norms. Modern representations emphasize…
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The Story of Saint Agabus: Patron Saint of Fortunetellers
Saint Agabus, recognized as a biblical prophet in the early Christian church, is viewed as an unconventional patron saint of fortunetellers. His successful prophecies provide credibility for divination practices among believers. Agabus’s legacy bridges…
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Maman Brigitte: A Tarot Guide to Connecting with this Powerful Loa & Three Spreads to Get Started
This post introduces a new series on deity work and tarot, focusing on Maman Brigitte, the Vodou goddess of death and protection. It explores how tarot can help connect with her through various card…
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Divining Ireland: Druids, Samhain, & the Celtic Revival
Sibyl explores the history of fortunetelling in Ireland, revealing its roots in Druidic practices and adaptation during Christianity. Key traditions, like Samhain divination and tea leaf reading, illustrate a blend of old and new…
Sibyl's Lab of Cartomantics 