The article by Dodds on theurgy and Neoplatonism mentions Compare … Hippolytus’ receipe for simulating a fiery apparition of Hecate by natural if somewhat dangerous means (Ref. Haer. 4, 36). The magician casts his spell, and … suddenly a flame is seen ascending in the sky nearby! The Refutation of Heresies IV, chapters 35-6 is … Continue reading Fire in the sky: a piece of ancient sorcery explained in Hippolytus