Occultism In Witchcraft

Defined by Merriam-Webster as “matters regarded as involving the action or influence of supernatural or supernormal powers or some secret knowledge of them” (“Occult”), occultism is the study of mysterious or hidden wisdom. From the earliest practices, Occultists regarded the craft as esoteric and beyond the range of ordinary comprehension, utilized only by experienced individuals with specialized knowledge. Because of this purposeful secrecy, idealized depictions of supernatural practices is not without expectation. As the entertainment industry increases their focus on the involvement of youth in witchcraft, the recurring theme is one of glamour and teenage empowerment. The creepy crone of fabled magic no longer, new spell-casters are young and attractive, the envy of modern day women. University of Warwick Researcher Rachel Moseley expounds upon this phenomenon, stating: “The teenage witch genre articulates a new powerful image of femininity. It’s not that the Hag and herb potions have become hip, rather witchcraft …show more content…
Created by Producer Aaron Spelling of 90210 and Melrose Place fame, Charmed centers on the lives of three young, attractive sisters who learn they are witches and immediately become engulfed in a battle between good and evil. Each week the sisters cast spells, recite incantations, perform rituals, summon spirits and battle demons, all while maintaining an outward appearance of normal, boy crazy teenagers. As the first television show to hire a demonologist as a creative consultant, Wiccan leaders credit the show with understanding precisely how to enthrall young viewers. Phyllis Curott, a Wiccan High Priestess, states: “Aaron Spelling is a genius at tapping into what's hot in the culture and witches are enormously hot in the culture. It especially speaks to teenage girls who are seeking empowerment.”