witchcraft Flashcards
what is witchcraft
a remnant of paganism that evolved in secret as Christianity evolved and became dominant
who were generally scapegoated as witches
not elite, older widows, poor, underhoused, degree of dementia
physionomy
science of how you look -> very problematic (superimposed images of multiple women to create a default look)
punishments for witchcraft
using divination -> 1 years penance
using astrology/raising storms -> 5 yrs penance
resorting to demons -> 1-10 years penance
killing another by use of spells -> 7 years
excommunication for those who practiced as magicians
Malleus Maleficarum
1486, inquisitors guide to witchraft
what heralded witch hysteria
succession of royal scandals related to witchcraft (alice perrers used “magic” to infatuate king)
witchcrat act
1563, imposed death penalty on those using witchcraft with the intent to kill or destroy
definition of witch
works for the devil, healer or reveals secrets, can fortel thinsg to come that the devil has devised to ensnare mens souls into damnation
profile of witch
old, walks like a bow, leans on staff, hollow-eyed, untoothed, furowing on face, limbs trembling with palsy, mumbling on streets. (all signs of old age, eg. arthritis, dementia) mostly female, few male
how many witch trials
270, 247 women, 23 men
can witches change men into beasts
not really. can make them believe they have been, but only god can make them change physically (devilish trickery)
why are women chiefly addicted to evil superstitions?
women no no moderation in goodness or vice, exceed bounds of their condition. when governed by good spirit are most excellent in spirit. when governed by evil spirit indulge in worst vices
signs by which a judge can recognize a witch
