📘 SECTION‑BY‑SECTION CONTENTS 1. Introduction to Hypnotism Explains what hypnotism is, what it is not, and how it works in a performance context. Covers: • Misconceptions • The hypnotic state • Why hypnotism works on stage • The performer’s attitude and confidence 2. Preparing the Subject How to select and prepare a volunteer. Includes: • Ideal subject characteristics • How to build rapport • How to create expectancy • How to eliminate resistance 3. Tests for Hypnotic Susceptibility A series of simple tests to determine who will respond best. Common tests include: • Finger‑locking test • Hand‑clasp test • Arm rigidity test • Eye‑closure test These are used both as pre‑show screening and as mini‑demonstrations. 4. The Induction Methods This is the heart of the booklet. Wolff teaches several practical inductions, including: • Progressive relaxation • Rapid induction • Instantaneous induction • Group induction techniques Each method is broken into clear steps suitable for beginners. 5. Deepening the Trance Once the subject is under, Wolff explains how to deepen the state. Includes: • Counting methods • Fractionation • Deepening suggestions • How to maintain control 6. Post‑Hypnotic Suggestion How to give commands that take effect after awakening. Topics include: • How to phrase suggestions • How to avoid resistance • How to create comedy effects • How to safely remove suggestions This is where the stage‑show material begins to take shape. 7. Stage Hypnotism Routines A collection of classic performance bits, such as: • Stiff‑as‑a‑board • Forgetting one’s name • Stuck to the chair • Laughing or crying on cue • Hallucination routines These are written in a simple, practical format for magicians. 8. Awakening the Subject How to safely and cleanly bring the subject out of trance. Includes: • Standard awakening script • How to remove lingering suggestions • How to avoid grogginess or confusion 9. The Introductory LectureA short script for the performer to deliver before beginning the demonstration.This sets the tone, builds authority, and prepares the audience. 10. Notes on Ethics and Safety A brief section reminding performers to: • Avoid dangerous suggestions • Respect the subject • Keep routines within safe limits This is shorter than in the 1936 edition but still present. 📦 BONUS MATERIAL (varies by print run) Some E‑Z Magic copies include: • A 9‑page D. Robbins “Selected Magic Books” catalog This is bound into the back and lists classic Robbins titles. 🎩 How This Edition Differs From the 1936 Original The Robbins edition: • Removes the “private course” framing • Condenses some lessons • Adds stage‑show emphasis • Uses simpler language • Is formatted as a magic‑shop booklet rather than a correspondence course But the core hypnotic methods remain intact. ⭐ SummaryThe D. Robbins edition is a short, inexpensive magic‑shop booklet that condenses Wolff’s material for performers. The new Hey Presto reprint is a fully restored, historically accurate reconstruction of the original 1936 course with expanded length, corrected errors, and premium production quality.📘 Physical and Production Differences Feature D. Robbins E‑Z Magic Edition Hey Presto 2025 Reprint Feature D. Robbins E‑Z Magic Edition Hey Presto 2025 Reprint Format Thin magic‑shop booklet High quality pocket paperback Length About 31 to 37 pages 80 pages Text Quality Condensed, simplified, sometimes error‑ridden Fully restored 1936 text with errors corrected Illustrations Minimal or none Remastered illustrations Extras Sometimes includes a Robbins catalog in the back Includes historical context and clean typesetting Purpose Affordable performer booklet Archival quality restoration for collectors and students 📚 Content DifferencesD. Robbins EditionA streamlined version of Wolff’s teachings.Focused on:• Basic inductions• Susceptibility tests• Stage routines• Post hypnotic suggestions• Awakening methods• A short introductory lectureIt removes the correspondence course structure and compresses the lessons into a quick magic‑shop format.
