Das Buch vom Aberglauben

In this three-volume work, Heinrich Ludwig Fischer describes the superstition widespread in the population at the end of the 18th century. The first part contains superstitious stories and examples of superstitious behaviour and gives the relevant incantations. From devils to ghosts, from goblins and witches to flying dragons and balls of fire – virtually all variations of superstition are addressed here. The second part focuses in more detail on those aspects and rituals of superstitious behaviour which were supposed to guard against negative influences on human life. The third volume completes the edition via reports of relevant experiences. The work is intended as a tool and a guide for parents and children to keep their children safe from superstition of all kinds. But the intention was also to instruct adults on the “harmfulness” of superstition and contribute towards their betterment.