Nicholas Blair: Warlock from Dark Shadows.
A warlock is a male individual who practices the art of witchcraft. There have been different names to describe such individuals. In modern traditions, it is not completely uncommon for males to be called witches. In fantasy settings, warlocks may also be referred to as wizards or sorcerers, though there are some differentiating characteristics between each of them. Warlocks tend to specialize in the dark arts, or black magic, earning them a negative connotation in various media and folklore. A warlock may act singularly or be part of a coven or cult. The ability and degree of knowledge that a warlock possesses varies depending upon his level of study or even some external elements such as mystical or geneological heritage. Some warlocks may even inherit a propensity to comprehend and manipulate mystical energies due to family lineage. Warlocks employ a wide variety of practices while honing their craft, or striving to achieve an effect. Many use ritualism to conduct a mystic ceremony in order to produce an effect. Usually, these situations require assistance from an otherwordly source, such as a demon, achieved through conjuration; or through invocation, in which the warlock seeks to curry favor with a supernatural entity. It is not uncommon to produce some manner of offering in such cases, often in the form of animal or even human sacrifice. Warlocks may also use any manner of artifacts in the pursuit of their craft including amulets, crystals, cards or even, magic wands.