Magic (The Elder Scrolls)

The Elder Scrolls is an American fantasy RPG video game series set on the continent of Tamriel in the fictitious world of Nirn, developed by Bethesda Game Studios and published by Bethesda Softworks.

Explanation
Magic, also known as the Clever Craft in-world, is the art or ability to alter or control the reality of the world through the manipulation of the energy of magicka, or expressed differently, magic is the transmutation of magicka into a physical force. The singular casting of this force to form a mystical effect is called a spell. One who works magic is known as a mage. Although all races of Tamriel generally possess some degree of magical aptitudes, those with elvish blood in particular far outshine the others. Magic is governed by the attributes of Intelligence and Willpower.

Magicka is a form of energy that mages uses to fuel spells, existing in ambient form in the world. There are many in-world theories as to where magicka actually comes from. According to an in-world legend, magicka is what is left of the power of the creator spirit Magnus when he was all but destroyed in the creation of the mortal plane. Other in-world theories include that when Magnus created the mortal plane, he unintentionally tore a hole into the plane of Aetherius, with his lesser deities opening smaller cracks, which allowed magicka to flow through stars. Others explain magicka as being accumulated life-force of dead organisms, which mages tap to convert into magical spells, etc.

Schools of Magic
Magic in The Elder Scrolls is divided into several disciplines, known as Schools of Magic. (Not all games make use of every School of Magic in their gameplay.)

The School of Alteration specializes in magic's ability to change the structure and composition of matter.

The School of Conjuration specializes in the use of magic to summon weapons, creatures and armor from the plane of Oblivion.

The School of Destruction specializes in the explosive, destructive, and damaging powers of magic.

Enchanting is the craft of imbuing unenchanted objects with magical properties or abilities.

The School of Illusion specialized in magics of obscuring, illumination, and camouflage.

The School of Mysticism specializes in the most arcane and mysterious working of magic. Many of the spell effects are curious and specific, not fitting into any of the other areas of magic.

The School of Restoration specializes in magics that ease, heal, and purify.

The School of Thaumaturgy focuses on manipulating known forces and objects within their natural laws.