Key facts
UNE unit code: RELS184
*You are viewing the 2026 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 3 - Online
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Since ancient times, magic and religion shared a common belief in the supernatural, yet their intersecting histories tell a story of acrimony and conflict.
This unit investigates how magic and the supernatural have been accepted, understood and practised in a range of historical and social contexts.
You will explore such themes as natural, ritual and demonic magic, necromancy, spirits, mediums and séances, fictional wizards and enchantment. You will analyse and evaluate primary and secondary sources and use them to articulate your knowledge in your written work.
Underpinning the study will be an examination of the nature and use of magic and its relation to religion and religious ideologies.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 3 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
There are no requisites for this unit.
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- demonstrate an understanding of the nature and use of magic in history and culture;
- communicate knowledge of human behaviour and concerns in the context of magic and the supernatural;
- apply skills in analysis and evaluation of primary and secondary sources;
- display analytical and research skills through examination of an aspect of magic and the supernatural by means of written assignments; and
- display well-developed communication skills through assignment work.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 40% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 2000 |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Conducted in-person or online, thirty-minutes (approx.) Students must pass the Assurance Task in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 1000 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 10% | All offerings | Selected response questions No. Words: 500 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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