Book Curses

Don't steal this

Book if you do I will

Beat your Brains

Out

Have you ever wanted to protect your books from forgetful borrowers, merciless page-folders or outright thieves? Perhaps you have even wished harm on those who have damaged your books, but would you threaten them with hellfire, hanging or the plague?

This book contains a collection of some of the most ferocious and humorous book curses ever inscribed, from fearsome threats discovered emblazoned on stone monuments from the ancient Near East, to elaborate manuscript maledictions and chilling warnings scribbled in printed books. Book curses are entertaining writings in themselves, but they also offer a tantalising insight into how passionately texts and books have been valued by their owners and readers over the centuries.

Here you will find an engaging introduction to the history and development of the book curse and perhaps some inspiration to pen a few of your own.

Eleanor Baker is the English Subject Lead for the Astrophoria Foundation Year at the University of Oxford.

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