"Through magic, we are entering a fictional world of wonder where nothing bad happens and all dangers vanish when the magician retrieves his assistant safe and sound after being cut in two or escapes himself from an imminent danger." Magic amazes, astounds, and entertains and The abracadabra shares some interesting facts that you may not know about magic and here are some of them:
- The word 'magic' is derived from Greek, mageia (μαγεία). Persian priests known as magish and Greek magoi were the first to perform magic acts.
- It was in the 18th century that magic became a respectable practice and was performed by rich private persons, prior to that it was a form of entertainment at fairs and included juggling and sword swallowing.
- Established magic organizations abound and the largest magic organization is the International Brotherhood of Magicians and the oldest organization is the Society of American Magicians, and Houdini was its president for several years.
- Houdini died on Halloween in 1926.
- The common magical phrase “Hocus Pocus” was taken from the name of a Norse mythological sorcerer known as Ochus Bochus. Meanwhile, anecdotally (from the English writer, Daniel Defoe), “Abracadabra” comes from an inscription on amulets worn during the Black Plague as protection from the disease.
- Magicians kept their tricks secret for many years for fear that people would no longer be enthralled. if they knew how the illusions were done. The first publication was Reginald Scot’s, 'Discoverie of Witchcraft' in 1584. Today, magic tricks are revealed on a lot of media platforms but contrary to the magicians' fears, audiences are still willing to pay for entertaining magical feats.
- Today, the term illusionist has become more popular in place of magician. The rationale being that some artists admit that their acts are skillful deceptions.
“For those who believe, no explanation is necessary; for those who do not believe, no explanation will suffice.” ~Joseph Dunninger
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For full article: 14 Facts You Need to Know About Magic
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