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intente or purpose” such as causing harm to animals or manipulating a person’s feelings towards another.Edward VI repealed this act 5 years later.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…
Witchcraft
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Salem Witch Trials
The Salem witch trials took place in Salem, Massachusetts between February 1692 and May 1693. The claims of Elizabeth Parris and Abigail Williams sparked these infamous trials that echo throughout history. Parris and Williams claimed to be possessed by the Devil and exhibited a variety…
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The Pendle Witches
The most famous witches in English history are the Pendle witches that were tried and executed in 1612. The Pendle witches were known in their community as healers and cunning folk, led by Elizabeth Southerns alias Demdike and located in and around Malkin Tower. This…