A collection of contemporary sources, literature and film, spanning from the early modern period to modern day
Witchcraft Laws in England
Henry VIII’s Act against Conjurations, Witchcrafts, Sorcery and Inchantments in 1541, defined witchcraft as a crime to be punishable by death or by the forfeiture of goods. This addressed the use of magic with “unlawfull intente or purpose” such as causing harm to animals or manipulating a person’s feelings towards another.Edward VI repealed this act 5 years later. Under the reign of Elizabeth I, the crime of witchcraft was once again punishable by…
