Witchcraft, Demonology and Magic

Delve into the intricate history of witchcraft, demonology, and magic with this collection of scholarly articles, edited by medieval historian Marina Montesano. The book offers a focused examination of these enduring topics across various European regions, including England, Germany, Hungary, and Italy, from the Late Medieval to the Modern era. It moves beyond simplistic narratives by investigating a plurality of causes and contexts, aligning with the cumulative concept of Western witchcraft. The essays explore the complex interactions between magic, popular religion, and institutional beliefs, revealing how perceptions of supernatural harm and esoteric knowledge evolved. This work provides a nuanced and interdisciplinary perspective on the historical development of witch-beliefs and their societal impact, inviting readers to reconsider the foundations of these pervasive phenomena.