In this class, Phoebe Hildegard Finch will discuss the history, evolution, and practical operation of the séance. Simple methods for at-home séance work will be drawn from Emma Hardinge Britten’s 1870 pamphlet on the subject. We will explore the praxis of spiritualism in the Victorian period and follow its evolution through multiple avenues to the present day.

From the table-rapping of the Fox Sisters to France’s Allan Kardec, to Mother Leafy Anderson and the Spiritualist Churches, to the many forms of Espiritismo and contemporary Umbanda, the séance has played a central role in many global experiences of mediumship since its introduction in the Victorian era.

Issues of safety and consent with possessing spirits will be explored, as well as spiritual elevation and protection. We will discuss the similarities and differences between the approach of the spirit medium and that of the necromancer. We will explore historical and contemporary methods for developing mediumistic ability and outline productive ways to work with spirits across the life–death divide.

“The only religious sect in the world… that has recognized the  equality of woman is the Spiritualists. They have always assumed that  woman may be a medium of communication from Heaven to Earth… that the  spirits of the universe may breathe through her lips.”

-History of Woman Suffrage (sic), edited by Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Susan B. Anthony, 1881

About the Presenter:

Phoebe Hildegard Finch is a writer, herbalist, and surrealist occultist. She combines direct spirit work and necromancy with poetic logic as she seeks to reanimate the traditions embedded in folklore and the grimoires in new ways. Recently she has been exploring the magical possibilities inherent in collective narrative through her creation Amor Fati: a Tarot Based Role-Playing Card Game. Phoebe lectures regularly on esoteric subjects in person and online. She consults with clients as a professional sorceress, an old-fashioned card reader, and a practical conjurer. More information and bookings can be sought out at her website: www.phoebehildegard.com

THIS CLASS IS ONLINE ONLY! The class link will be emailed to you in your registration confirmation. The class recording link will be emailed to you within 3-5 business days of the conclusion of the class and will be available to you for 30 days after the conclusion of the class.

By purchasing this ritual you agree to the following Non Disclosure:

This Agreement is between The Cauldron Black (“OWNER”); and the Purchaser (“RECIPIENT”). WHEREAS, OWNER has developed through substantial effort, research, time, and expense certain inventions, design concepts, methodologies, technical know-how, copyrightable material and trade secrets directed and related to this class.  (“INFORMATION”); WHEREAS, OWNER desires to disclose the INFORMATION on a confidential basis to RECIPIENT.  The OWNER wishes to maintain the confidentiality of the INFORMATION and the protection of OWNER'S intellectual property rights. NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the  mutual promises, covenants, and conditions contained herein, the sufficiency of which is hereby acknowledged, the parties agree as follows:  I. CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION A. OWNER agrees to disclose  INFORMATION to RECIPIENT for the purposes of an online class.  B. RECIPIENT agrees to receive such INFORMATION and to refrain from  copying, disclosing, using, selling, or offering for sale any and all of said INFORMATION. RECIPIENT agrees to keep confidential and refrain from disclosing any and all of the INFORMATION, and to take all necessary and reasonable steps to prevent unauthorized disclosure or  use  of any and all of the INFORMATION.  Failure to uphold this NDA may result in legal action.