The book progresses from examining animism and ancestor veneration in early societies to analyzing the integration of spirit beliefs into organized religions, such as those of ancient Egypt, Greece, and medieval Europe. Key chapters delve into specific practices like exorcism and divination. It then transitions to how these religious beliefs have been adapted within the horror genre, demonstrating how societal anxieties related to spirits and death are reflected in literature and film. This approach offers readers a comprehensive view of how spirit beliefs have shaped both religion and culture throughout history.