We begin with a survey of the origins of Western credence in witchcraft, including its pagan, biblical, patristic, folkloristic and Germanic sources. The course covers in greater detail the period from the twelfth century, when the Catholic Church began to see witchcraft and the practice of diabolical magic as growing threats, through the height of the witch-hunting mania in the late sixteenth century, to the development of skepticism about witchcraft's efficacy in the seventeenth century. We also compare European witchcraft beliefs to those of seventeenth-century America and the modern world. Lady Arian Rhod, a local coven leader, will come to class to present her views and beliefs about contemporary witchcraft in the Toledo area. Prof. Alfred Cave, an expert on the subject, will give a guest lecture on the history of Native American religion and alleged witchcraft.
Students read a textbook, primary sources and two case studies of sixteenth-century witchcraft.
The class will combine lectures and discussions. Alan Kors and Edward Peters, eds. At least two new bluebooks III. Requirements . Regular attendance at class is required for credit in this course. Students must keep up with the reading in order to be prepared to participate in class discussions, which will be an important component of the learning process.