Germans, however, viewed the wolf with honor. Names such as Wolfgang and Wolfhard were common. As Christianity slowly gained prominence, such beliefs were condemned as Satanic. Philosophers and religious thinkers contemplated the theory that perhaps the person did not physically change into a wolf but had been tricked by Satan into acting like the creatures. Generally, though, most believe that only God has the ability to change the body or mind of man.
Most werewolves claim they change into the hybrid by rubbing salve on themselves.
Those who participated in the witch trials of the Renaissance concluded the only transformation took place in the victims mind. In most cases those who believe they can change into werewolves are considered mentally ill. In 1589 a German man named Stubbe Peeter was put to trial for the murder of twenty five adults and children, including his own son. Peeter said he had not only killed the victims but also ate their flesh. Peeter also claimed he committed incest and violence against animals.