Herbalist, Visionary Mystic, Musical Composer, and Protofeminist Reformer Hildegard von Bingen wrote many works in her lifetime. One of the most useful for practical magic is her Physica. Originally known as the Liber Simplicis Medicinæ, or “Book of Medicinal Simples”, this compendium in nine volumes explains the medico-magical uses of natural beings such as plants, animals, stones, metals, and more.

Just in time for Hildegard’s feast day (September 17), Phoebe Hildegard Finch will present on nine herbal folk magic workings embedded in Hildegard’s Physica. Though her medieval catholicism kept Hildegard from openly conceiving of these works as spells, Ms. Finch will demonstrate how they function by principles still followed today in the folk magics of rootwork, conjure and cunning craft.

As Hildegard von Bingen was renowned during her life for her prophetic visions, special attention will be given in this class to her herbal recipes and spells to enhance clairvoyance.…