Bloomsbury Witchcraft and Magic in Europe Vol 4 - Witch Trials

Explore a detailed historical analysis of the fifteenth to eighteenth centuries in this fourth volume of the Athlone history of witchcraft and magic in Europe. This book examines the widespread period of witchcraft prosecutions that occurred across the continent during these centuries. Instead of a standard chronological approach, this volume organizes the history of the trials by the specific types of legal systems involved. This method provides a fresh perspective on how different judicial frameworks handled accusations and proceedings during this era. Readers will find information regarding the continued practical use of magic and the development of demonological theories. The text also covers the evolution of scientific interests in natural magic throughout the Neoplatonic and Hermetic periods. This work serves as a comprehensive summary of modern research, making it a valuable resource for those studying historical legal systems and the history of magic.