The Witch

Starred review from September 1, 2017

In this comprehensive study of the factors leading to the European witch hunts of the late Middle Ages and early modern era, Hutton (history; Univ. of Bristol; Pagan Britain) draws upon research in history, anthropology, and folklore studies to pinpoint the characteristics of the typical witch figure and to identify global occurrences of the archetype. The author then narrows his focus to Europe and the Near East, tracing factors over time that contributed to the development of a widespread fear of satanic witches believed to threaten both the safety of local communities and the stability of the Christian faith. Cultural traditions of nocturnal female demons combined with a criticism of elite ceremonial magic to create this concept, which Hutton identifies as the primary catalyst for the vicious persecutions that spread across the continent beginning in the late Middle Ages. Particularly fascinating are Hutton's findings regarding the lack of a strong fear of witches in the Celtic areas of Britain, where an enduring belief in fairies diverted the blame for uncanny misfortunes away from practitioners of alchemy. VERDICT Highly recommended for readers interested in witch trials, European folklore, and the history of magical beliefs and practices.--Sara Shreve, Newton, KS

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