Definitions And Key Terms Flashcards
What does Maleficium mean
“evil deed” - by 1580, Maleficium was understood as an act of witchcraft designed to harm someone or something.
What is meant by a Sacrament?
A Sacrament is a ceremony carried out to attain spiritual grace, e.g Holy communion
What is meant by Devil’s mark
A mark on the body of someone that has had an agreement with the devil
E.g skintag or birthmark
What are cunning folk?
Cunning folk are people that carry out good deeds - folk healers etc.
What is an assize circuit?
Courts that travelled in six circuits around the country, hearing serious cases.
What is meant by the term: justice of the peace?
A public official appointed to administer the law at a local level.
What is a privy council?
The private council of the monarch.
What is a vagrant?
Vagrants are beggars or people that are looking for work.
However, by the 17th century, it was someone who was able to work but chose not to - this could be punishable by whipping etc.
What is a dissenter?
A dissenter is a member of the non-established church outside the church of England.
What is an idolater
An idolater is someone that worships false idols.
What is a nonconformist?
A Protestant who does not conform to the established practices of the church of England.
What is a Calvinist?
A Calvinist is a follower of John Calvin - protestant reformation.
Very strict
