Context: Witchcraft and the Reformation

Question 1

There was increased tension between who?

Answer 1

There was increased tension between the Catholics and the Protestants.
Both accused each other of fostering witches.

Question 2

Who was a catalyst for the Reformation and why?

Answer 2

Martin Luther - 1517: 95 theses.
He criticised the Catholic doctrine of salvation through deeds and rituals.
He believed in salvation via faith.

Question 3

The effect of the Protestant reformation on Tudor Britain:

Answer 3

1534: Henry VIII breaks from the Church of Rome and forms the Church of England.

Question 4

What does Elizabeth I do in 1559?

Answer 4

She established a settlement declaring that an individual relationship with God through prayer was more important than Catholic sacraments.

Question 5

What was central to Protestant faith despite the break from Catholic doctrine?

Answer 5

Belief in the devil and witchcraft.

Many witch-hunters of the period were Puritans.