Fraudulent Cases- Pendle Swindle 1634 Flashcards
what is significant about this case that separates it from the other fraudulent cases?
it was the first case to involve members of the elite, particularly king charles. indeed this may have influenced scepticism that would develop across the century
what is significant about the involvement of king charles
the involvement of king charles undoubtedly gave the case publicity and strengthened it contribution to the sceptic, intellectual climate growing at the time
how does the pendle swindle contrast to the boy of burton case
the boy of burton case occured during the reign of king james, whos encouragement of witch hunting was outlined in demonology. this contrast in involvement of both monarchs demonstrates changing attitudes and growing scepticism amongst the elite in society
which sceptic publication highlights the long term impact of the case
john webster comments on the pendle swindle in his book ‘the displaying of supposed witchcraft.’ this clearly highlights the long term impact of the case as it captured attention of the elite and provided long lasting criticism of witch hunting. therefore, without this case, webster may not have had this strong foundation to base his scepticism on
how is the case remarkable for its evidence-based approach
.The evidence-based approach, through further questioning and the involvement of surgeons, does reveal that a more careful, sceptical approach to witchcraft trials was developing.
why was the pendle swindle more signifucant in its immediate impact
The pendle swindle was a key development in the growth of scepticism due to its involvement of central authority which was able to prompt scepticism on a larger scale than other cases that only had an impact decades later (demon drummer)
