Tresum, the form of witchcraft practiced in Dante’s Cove is peppered with just enough bits and bobs from real witchcraft practice to make it believable. But in so far as there are similarities, there are many differences. Many forms of magic are practiced today, however the most prevalent and fastest growing is Wicca. Wicca is a modernized form of pagan beliefs fathered by Gerald Gardener that has evolved over several decades into many different paths, some all female, some all male, many of both sexes, some worshiping particular deities and many practicing solo as solitaries.

Wicca and modern day witches have nothing to do with the devil! In fact, the devil is a Christian invention that does not even exist in Wiccan belief. The sole goal of the modern witch (both men and women are called witches as “warlock” is an offensive term to many male witches) is to harness his or her own power with intent to effect positive change on their own life, the lives of others and the world.

True magic comes from within yourself and not from without. But the modern witch can use tools, herbs, etc. as a way to focus intention and energy. Yes, witches cast spells but a spell is basically a focusing of your energy used in concert with other things such as herbs that have energetic vibrations that match the desired outcome to make a positive change with harm to no one. In essence, even a prayer could be considered a sort of spell.

Witches attune themselves with the elements of earth, air, fire and water. One is prevalent in each person and the individual must seek and learn of the other three to create balance. Witches follow the change of seasons through festivals or Sabbats that divide the year into eight parts. Four are solar related and occur on the solstices and equinoxes and four are based on ancient agricultural festivals that occur halfway between each solstice and equinox with Samhain (Halloween) being the primary festival and the witch’s New Year.

While indiviual paths may have their own precepts, there is no central figure like the Pope in Christianity or the High Priestess of Avalon from Arthurian legend or Bible to mandate the parameters of the belief system. The only generally accepted precept throughout all traditions, eccletics, covens and solitaries, the golden rule so to speak, is “an harm none, do as ye will.” This meaning that so long as whatever you do does not harm yourself or someone else or in anyway interfere with another person’s free will or their own power, do what pleases you.

There are many good books on Wicca and witchcraft that can be found in your local bookstore in the new age section, with many larger bookstores such as Barnes & Noble and Borders having specific sections for witchcraft. Wicca: A Guide for the Solitary Practitioner is a good starting point and the definitive guide for starting your journey on a magical path.