Witchcraft in Early Modern Europe

“A person who hath conference with the Devil to consult with him or to do some act” ~ Chief Justice Coke (England, 1620s)

What is a witch?

Ancient beliefs of witches

Medieval superstitions

Christian beliefs

Origins

Women became increasingly identified with witchcraft and magicGroups targeted:

More concern with power of the devil and his influence in daily life

Use of magic increasingly connected to demonology and thus heresy

Changing ideas on witchcraft

From Greek “Daimon” meaning supernatural spirit unrelated to a god

From Christianity – fallen angel who is not part of heaven

Relationship between demonology and witchcraft is crucial

The Study of Demonology

What could witches do?Control the weatherCreate love spellsCause deathCreate potions and

ointments

Portrayal of Witches

When a witch is caught

What accounts for the growing persecution of witchcraft? Reformation

Religious instability leads to persecution Leaders prove piety through persecution

Socioeconomic Inflation War Famine

Demographic Late marriages and unmarried women leave many outside male

control Intellectual

More religious and lay leaders concerned with finding witches Awareness of devil in everyday life

Legal Prosecution is easier

Witch Hunts