This volume provides readers with a springboard to a deeper and broader understanding of the practices of hypnotism. Evangelista finds that hypnotism has now become such a broad topic that it can no longer be relegated to scientific, medical, or stage understanding alone. To best represent the many facets of modern hypnotism, Evangelista has explored the fields of science, religion, psychology, medicine, politics, law, entertainment, and literature. From all this emerges a portrait of hypnotism that is well rounded and durable.

In her Dictionary of Hypnotism, Evangelista presents readers with a complete and insightful portrait of the state of modern hypnotism. Virtually every aspect of this diverse field is carefully studied and presented. The book is laid out in simple alphabetical order. Movie and literature entries are listed by the first noun in the title. Asterisks are used within the text to denote that the indicated word or phrase is covered under its own separate heading. Each entry is concluded by a helpful set of references for further study in that area. Following the entries are a series of appendices that should provide convenient reference to techniques of hypnotic induction, a brief list of individuals who have offered significant contributions to the field, and a selection of terms specific to hypnotism. This text will be of extreme interest to anyone involved in medicine, psychology, hypnotism, or their associated fields.