The Spirit World Unmasked: Henry Ridgley Evans 1897

Step behind the velvet curtain of séance rooms, spirit cabinets, and theosophical temples in The Spirit World Unmasked a podcast that dissects one of the most compelling sceptical works of the early 20th century. Centred around Henry Ridgely Evans’ 1902 exposé The Spirit World Unmasked, this series draws directly from the rare document “original extract” to reveal how illusion, belief, and human curiosity collided during the golden age of spiritualism.

Evans, a journalist, librarian and expert on stage magic, approached psychic phenomena with a critical eye and a deep respect for the power of belief. In this podcast, we unravel the stories, case studies, and confessions featured in his writing from ghostly apparitions and slate writing to the inner workings of fraudulent mediums and the tricks of the séance trade.

Each episode blends dramatic readings, historical commentary and modern reflection on the legacy of spiritualism, science and deception. We ask: where does healthy scepticism end and cynical dismissal begin? And what can we learn from a man who respected both wonder and reason?

Whether you're fascinated by the occult, drawn to spiritual history, or a fan of sceptical inquiry, The Spirit World Unmasked offers a compelling journey into the heart of an era obsessed with proving the unseen and the people determined to uncover the truth behind it.

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