This research serves to draw parallels between the experiences of Hiram Page and John Hyrum Koyle.  It will analyze the church's reaction to individuals with claims of divine power outside of immediate church leadership.

This current research plan focuses on analyzing the primary source materials surrounding the Smith family.  They were an eclectic group with reports of magical beliefs and even alcoholism.  The research seeks to answer the question of how Joseph Smith Jr.'s family dynamic played a role in the coming forth of the Book of Mormon.

While the magic worldview has largely been removed from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it plays an important role in fundamentalist movements.  This research looks at the manner in which magical beliefs held by the early church are still alive and well in Mormon fundamentalism.