Famous real witches in history. Let’s meet them! 25 Famous Witches in History 1.
Famous real witches in history And while there is a broad spectrum of witch stories out there, there is a through-line common to them Sep 28, 2023 · Here are the best witches in movie and TV history. " Around Halloween and spooky season, famous characters and specific imagery surfaces when witches are Sep 11, 2015 · Magic is totally real, and was totally practiced by totally real people who lived in history! Here are just 10 real-life wizards and sorcerers who used magic for a lot more than just party tricks Sep 20, 2023 · Next, let’s dive into some of the most famous Celtic witches in history. The witch allies herself with the other Wicked Witches of the land to conquer Oz. WatchMojo counts down ten of the Feb 3, 2022 · If you're seeking some new faces to glue on your dartboard, this list of the most infamous witch hunters in history is perfect for you. Sep 13, 2017 · Real Vampires . Boudicca (Boadicea) For most people today, witches are the stuff of Halloween or Disney. Midnight on Halloween is the witching hour! Throughout history, the myth of the witch has been a tool of oppression, empowerment, and an expression of all things wyrd and wonderful. " Around Halloween and spooky season, famous characters and specific imagery surfaces when witches are Oct 24, 2022 · The Salem witch trials occurred in colonial Massachusetts between early 1692 and mid-1693. Witches have been popular subjects throughout history in tales, myths and legends. Denny’s photographic project “Major Arcana: Witches in America” is an expansive visual document of the modern face of witchcraft. Dorcas Wellbeloved (1812-1904) was the founder of the Society for Distressed Witches. Introduction to the witch trials in the Southern states. But who are the real witches in history? Because witchcraft was taboo for so long (not to mention punishable by death), many practitioners kept their practice a secret. We’ve seen quite a few of these pop up in stories old and new, and some of them have really managed to get a solid place in history. Witches were perceived as evil beings by early Christians in Europe. In Defense of Witches: The Legacy of the Witch Hunts and Why Women are Still on Trial Jul 18, 2016 · A depiction of the devil giving magic puppets to witches, from 1591. Those who managed to break free and swim to the top were proven to be witches who had been helped by the devil, while those who sank and drowned were deemed innocent. The brazen bull is an ancient mythical torture device supposedly used by Phalaris, a tyrant who ruled a part of Sicily in the 6th century BCE. However, time has a way of revealing secrets long buried. Oct 30, 2024 · The Bell Witch is perhaps the South’s most famous witch, and thousands of people from all over the country have traveled to Adams, TN, to witness the paranormal hauntings. She’s found witchcraft history so fascinating that she now co-teaches a seminar of witches in history with Alison Games, Dorothy M. Greenwood Publishing Group. Grimhild or Grímhildr, from Norse mythology, is decidedly a bad witch. Dec 16, 2022 · Before J. Oct 28, 2017 · The witches of Irish history had one thing in common: they were women who refused to conform Water test used at part of witchcraft trials in the 17th century. u003c/pu003e. Learn about what led to the allegations and the hundreds of people Explore the history and real-life stories of witches in the Middle Ages. So, from healers and clairvoyants to enigmatic leaders and scandalous personalities, here’s our list of famous Feb 20, 2018 · The Pythia goddess of Greek mythology may have also been one of the first feminist witches in history. Dec 4, 2024 · This later became changed in the novels’ various adaptations, with the witch’s castle becoming a sinister fortress. Ursula Southeil Dec 12, 2022 · And this list will document ten of these sorts of witches. Aug 23, 2013 · Some of them became rich and famous because of their talent, others suffered violent deaths. (2006). Even when they practiced in good faith, the very idea of sorcery was not too highly viewed by the church. Fans of fantasy, science fiction, horror, alt history, and more can all find a home with us. She was a covenanted member of her church, and was considered an upstanding Apr 7, 2022 · He later published Witchcraft Today after the witchcraft laws were repealed. Dead wrong: violence, vengeance, and the victims of capital punishment. Oct 7, 2015 · Although it’s not as famous, Pendle Hill is sometimes referred to as the “Salem of England” because one of the most famous witch trials in English history occurred there in 1612. In fact during the Early Modern Period (1400-1700), an estimated 70,000 to 100,000 souls were executed Aug 7, 2023 · He later published Witchcraft Today after the witchcraft laws were repealed. 8 Famous Witches From Mythology and Folklore (Learn Religions) Yes, Witches Are Real. People believe that they performed strange rituals and have supernatural powers. They preside over the the darkness, the moon, death, and rebirth. Laverne de Montmorency (1823-1893) was famous for creating love potions. Video: 5 Most FAMOUS WITCHES In History Oct 26, 2023 · The majority of books about witches featured here are non-fiction, highlighting witches’ roles throughout history and the modern practice of witchcraft. Levack, Brian P. Illustration from Ludicium aquae Sep 7, 2019 · You don't need to be under a spell to know that witches have had a bad run of it in history. Oct 27, 2023 · A historian of women and gender in the early modern period, Leonard examines the role and perceptions of witches — most commonly portrayed as women — throughout time. . The creepiest real witches in history That explains why there have been real witches throughout history, sorceresses who have gone down in history for their ritual practices, their supposed supernatural powers and their truly creepy histories. You may be interested in this article on Famous Witches in English: The 6 Most Famous Witches In Later, the Pendle witch trials of 1612 joined the ranks of the most famous witch trials in English history. Pearson Education. They collude with the earth through plants and herbs, sometimes Apr 4, 2019 · Burned at the Stake: 5 Terrifying Witch Trials Throughout History Matsdotter, along with Anna Simonsdotter Hack, became the last people executed for witchcraft in Stockholm. Learn more about Dion Fortune’s books here. 1627 engraving. Menu. Exploring the stories of famous witches Aug 19, 2024 · Tituba is the real-life slave accused of witchcraft in the Salem Witch Trials whose confession of communing with the devil fueled the deadly mass hysteria and hunts, portrayed sympathetically by Ashanti in the TV mini-series Salem. I Know Because I Am One . u003ch2u003e2. The trial not only resulted in the execution of 10 people, but also set a dangerous precedent in witchcraft cases that would go on to have a lasting influence May 29, 2015 · Witchcraft was not made a capital offence in Britain until 1563 although it was deemed heresy and was denounced as such by Pope Innocent VIII in 1484. When it comes to famous witches in history, Tituba is one name you can’t overlook. Jul 7, 2013 · 3 The Bell Witch. The Witch-Hunt in Early Modern Europe. She attended Hogwarts as a Ravenclaw from around 1834 until 1841. Do brush up on your Brothers Grimm before investigating them. ly/2Ibyk6iSubscribe To Most Amazing Top 10 Español: https://bi What sets the "witches" of Latin America apart from their European counterparts is the blend of religiosity and spirituality. Soon to catch their attention was an old woman called Elizabeth Southerns, known to locals as “Old Demdike”. Shrouded in mystery, she has become over time the archetypal image of the “Voodoo Queen”, and managed to combine the roles of Voodoo priestess and devoted Catholic. Courtesy Sarah Lemire. [72] The peak years of witch-hunts in southwest Germany were from 1561 to 1670. These biographies of selected personalities include witch figures from myth and folklore as well as self-confessed witches and occultists throughout Oct 11, 2022 · The morality of witches and wizards through history can range from the wicked to the benevolent, but either way, their perception by the masses has typically leaned towards the nefarious, as History relates. Art Gallery of South Australia from Wikimedia Commons (Public Domain); adapted in Canva Nov 4, 2011 · The infamous Salem witch trials were a series of prosecutions for witchcraft starting in 1692 in Salem Village, Massachusetts. Here Is A List Of 10 Famous Witches In History: Dec 11, 2024 · The Salem witch trials (1692–93) were a series of investigations and persecutions that caused 19 convicted ‘witches’ to be hanged and many other suspects to be imprisoned in Salem Village in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. Close. Here are some of the most famous Irish witches and Scottish witches throughout history. See All (18) Curiosity University. From ancient folklore to modern-day legends, these magical figures have captivated our imaginations for centuries. We’ll be excluding Oct 18, 2005 · However, many historians point out that the three centuries of witch trials during the Middle Ages distorted our images of witches, creating the old-woman-in-black stereotype most people hold today. Such individuals like Merlin, Gandalf , and Dumbledore serve as archetypal figures who act as blueprints for numerous other magicians found in books, movies, or even gaming platforms. Agnes Waterhouse. And Salem actually pales in comparison to some witch hunts that took place abroad. Your internet connection has been lost, please check your internet connection, refresh the page and try again. in 1817. She was accused of using witchcraft to kill one of these husbands, and on top of that was accused of communing with demons, animal sacrifice Top 10 Witches From Mythology and Folklore Welcome to WatchMojo, and today we’re counting down our picks for the most fascinating magical women from the worlds of myth. Oct 1, 2019 · If you look at some of the most legendary witches in history, from the enchantresses of ancient mythic lore to real witches that walked the earth, a pattern emerges: the invocation of the primal. Find and save ideas about famous witches in history on Pinterest. Witch Trials in the Southern States. ISBN 0-19-285449-6. During the early modern period (1450–1750), 45 000 women and men were executed in Western Europe under legislation specifically against witchcraft. So to catch you up on the real-life witches from years gone by, here are 10 famous witches who left their mark on history. News Sleepy Hollow is a film that follows a cop investigating unsolved murders in the real-life town of Sleepy Hollow The Wicked Witch of the West acquired world fame with her movie appearance. She has a store in Salem, where she resides. Mysticurious throws light on some of the famous witches and wizards of all time who may have been misinterpreted or misjudged because of their beliefs. Most supposed witches were usually old women, and invariably poor. Sep 25, 2023 · Real Witches and Witch Trials in History A Cathar Witch Trial in 1274. But only 300 years ago, witchcraft was a crime punishable by death. (Image credit: Wikimedia Commons) Although the persecution of alleged witches took place in Christian Europe during the Oct 31, 2015 · While the idea of witches evokes images of hook-nosed women, the history of witches tells us that their origins are far less sinister. At the time of her birth, Louisiana was still administered by Spanish colonial officials, although by treaty the territory had been restored to the French First Republic a year prior. Like Rebecca Nurse, Martha Cory was far from the usual witch suspect, who tended to be a poor outcast. Famous Witch Artworks to Know. Stack, Richard A. Mar 25, 2024 · Additionally, fine art continues to engage with witch archetypes, examining them through the lens of sexuality, ritual practice, and modern witchcraft. She is the main villain in The Wizard of Oz, the first book from the Oz series by Frank Baum. The people on this list came from all social classes and every period of history. [8] [need quotation to verify] Oct 31, 2020 · In Major Arcana: Portraits of Witches in America, award-winning photographer Frances F. Throughout history, witches have been a subject of fascination in art, often depicted with a blend of fear, awe, and mystery. Our number one most famous witch in history is one of the first recorded witches in Europe, from Ireland specifically. And by drama, I mean the infamous Salem witch trials of 1692 – a crazy time when everyone was losing their minds over witchcraft. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Apr 13, 2021 · A belief in witches did not originate in the colonies, however, as England – and Europe overall – had been persecuting those accused of witchcraft for centuries. In secret these real witches of the north would gather to cast spells and even commit murder. After death, the myth of magic was often used to villainize or heroize a historical figure. Let’s take a look at some witches of ancient and/or modern history that everyone should know. Throughout the history of witch trials, starting in Europe and moving to New England, an estimated 40,000 to 50,000 people were accused, tried, and executed for witchcraft, and 80% of them were women. In this article, we introduce some of the most famous witches and take a look at their stories and the historical context in which they lived. 8. ISBN 0-582-41901-8. Dec 28, 2024 · Famous Witches from History Marie Laveau (1801 - 1881) Marie Laveau was a Louisiana Creole practitioner of Voudou (or Voodoo) in New Orleans. MERCH: We've got it! Diving into the dark history of witch hunts, witch trials and real-life witches. They’re normal-seeming people who drink small amounts of blood Oct 12, 2023 · 5. While witches were usually decapitated or hanged to death, the court decided to give Matsdotter a different sentence after she refused to admit her guilt. Brown Distinguished Professor of History. So in 1612 authorities finally decided to come down hard on this alleged witchcraft. Sep 12, 2017 · The real history of witches, however, is dark and, often for the witches, deadly. Top 5 Most Famous Real Witches In History In this article, we will take a look at some of the most famous "real" witches in history. At the trial, Alison confessed to a plethora of crimes, like charming milk into butter, employing the services of a familiar to hurt her enemies, and killing innocent children. A vulnerable outsider ensnared in Puritan paranoia, Tituba seals her own fate by falsely claiming wicked powers r/Fantasy is the internet's largest discussion forum for the greater Speculative Fiction genre. In the 13th century, this woman married four times, which was somewhat unusual. If y From literature and mythology, famous witches have had a great impact on the fantasy genre by shaping its themes, characters as well as stories. K. More than 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft—the devil’s magic—and 20 were executed The Triumph of the Moon: A History of Modern Pagan Witchcraft. Artist : Cornelisz van Oostsanen, Jacob (ca. Pictures included where possible. Hunting witches and putting them on trial has a long, bloody history. Most were jus Famous witches throughout history. In 1804, John Bell moved his family to a 320-acre farm in Tennessee. Gardner passed into the Summerland in 1964 after suffering a heart attack. Jul 26, 2024 · Who is the greatest witch in television history? The title of the greatest witch in television history is often attributed to Samantha Stephens from Bewitched. [1] As we all know from hearing countless stories since childhood, there are good witches and there are bad witches. She lived during the 17th century in colonial Massachusetts, right in the middle of all the drama. Here are the best non-fiction books about witches you need to add to your reading list. Oct 23, 2024 · Salem Witch Trials (History Channel) Bewitched: 5 Real Witches in History . Portrayed by Elizabeth Montgomery, Samantha is a kind-hearted witch who tries to live a normal suburban life while navigating her magical powers. Related: 10 Creepy Tales From English Folklore Dec 12, 2022 · As witches come together through their love of plants, crystals, and the pursuit of knowledge, it's essential to keep in mind the women who came before. Dive into the world of Famous Witches in History as we unveil their shocking mysteries and secrets! From the notorious Salem witches to legendary figures lik Explore the enchanting stories of 12 famous witches, from Morgan le Fay to Circe, as we take a mystical journey into the world of mythology and folklore. Martha Cory . Throughout history, witchcraft has been associated with a wide range of beliefs and practices, varying greatly across different cultures and time periods. Episode 8 of the 18-part podcast The Real History of Witches, published by Learn25. This is a broad list including mystical wizards and sorcerers alongside more mundane, real-life alchemists. Her story takes place in seventeenth Jan 23, 2020 · Dion Fortune is one of the most famous witches in history and has helped to shape spiritual practices that persist today. When it comes to witches, witchcraft, spells, witch hunters, witch torture and witch executions, everyone knows about the Salem Witch Trials. Agnes Waterhouse is a famous figure in English witchcraft history. The Bell Witch was supposedly a poltergeist that appeared in the home of John Bell, Sr. A lesser-known phenomenon in American history. Famous occultists such as these could certainly be considered "real-life wizards". Let’s dive in and learn more about these women. 1. One of the most famous witches in Virginia’s history is Grace Sherwood, whose neighbors Aug 7, 2023 · American high priestess of witchcraft and novelist Laurie Cabot was born on March 6, 1933. Apr 3, 2024 · A Brief History of Witchcraft: From Ancient Times to Modern Day seeks to unravel the enigma surrounding this intricate topic, shedding light on its significance in contemporary society. Dec 6, 2024 · An overview of French women in history and the evolution of the French feminist movement. Beatrice de Planissoles was born near the year 1274 and was accused of heresy because she had Nov 28, 2018 · Frances F. Jun 8, 2013 · The Pendle witches are famous for confessing to having attended a Sabbat (a meeting of witches) at Malkin Tower, Pendle Hill on Good Friday in 1612. Many of these famous Celtic witches are just super cool, but they can also be useful to work with in a patron deity sense. It includes English and French-language resources, primary sources and covers the Middle Ages, Witch Trials, Ancien Régime, Revolutionary and Modern eras in France. One of the most famous witch trials in English history was that of the Pendle Witches in 1612 in Lancashire which resulted in the execution by hanging of ten people convicted of witchcraft. In the history of England, Alison Device of the 1612 Pendle Witch Trials is considered the most scandalous. From 1484 until around 1750 some 200,000 witches were tortured, burnt or hanged in Western Europe. It consisted of a life-size bronze Diving into the dark history of witch hunts, witch trials and real-life witches. Latin American "witches" are rooted in African magic, European spiritualism, and Indigenous practices, making them practice an integrated version of spirituality. Witchcraft has been a part of human history since ancient times. [64] The Malefizhaus of Bamberg, Germany, where suspected witches were held and interrogated. 25 min. Whether you believe in the power of witchcraft or not, there's no denying the impact that witches and sorcerers have had on human history. Witch hunts began to increase first in southern France and Switzerland, during the 14th and 15th centuries. Witch hunts and witchcraft trials rose markedly during the social upheavals of the 16th century, peaking between 1560 and 1660. Nov 2, 2019 · While most Western cultures antagonize the figure of a “witch” – hunting, executing, and bad-naming women who exercise spiritual superiority, Louisiana does the opposite. However, her selfish nature becomes apparent when the Wicked Witch of the East gets killed. In one legend, she breaks up the marriage between Sigurðr and Brynhildr by giving the husband a potion that makes him forget his wife. Drawing on older traditions and modern influences, Gardner’s Wiccan tradition introduced the concept of a nature-based religion celebrating the sabbats, moon phases, and the worship of a Goddess and God. We welcome respectful dialogue related to speculative fiction in literature, games, film, and the wider world. The Pendle saga began in simple fashion when, in March 1612, young Alison Device met a peddler named John Law and asked him for a pin. Here are the top 8 most famous Italian witches in history you should know about. Although the witch trials in New England, especially in Salem, are widely known, there were also witch trials in the Southern states of the USA. Here is a list of 10 famous witches in history. MERCH: We Historical records state that Marie Catherine Laveau was born a free woman of color in New Orleans 's French Quarter, Louisiana, on Thursday, September 10, 1801. But what about the real folk healers, midwives, priestesses, and wise women Jan 4, 2025 · Welcome, fellow enthusiasts of the mystical and magical! Today, we're diving deep into the enchanting world of famous witches and wizards throughout history. Alison Device Alison Device. A list of famous wizards, both legendary and real wizards, mystics, and occultists. Heritage Images/Getty Images / Getty Images Oct 18, 2018 · 5. Sep 27, 2023 · But in the past, there were people who were known as witches. Oxford University Press. Oct 19, 2023 · Often referred to as the father of modern Wicca, Gerald Gardner played an instrumental role in reviving witchcraft in the 20th century. Their temperaments ranged from friendly to terrifying. Making magic potions, casting spells, acting out healing rituals, or possessing supernatural abilities, witches and wizards have been associated with them all. Isobel Gowdie. She was accused of witchcraft and put on trial for several crimes, including the death of her husband. Found in the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. B roomsticks, cauldrons and pointy hats often come to mind when someone says the word "witch. But do you know these famous witches? Scroll on to test your knowledge Sep 27, 2023 · Top 5 Most Famous Real Witches In History In today's world, most of us think that witches only live in the fantasy world. Apr 12, 2024 · In this article, we explore some of the more famous witches in history including legendary witches, accused witches in the Medieval Period, and modern witches. MovieWeb. Famous Italian Witches. Oct 30, 2015 · Written accounts of women who practice magic are as old as recorded history, and continue to the present day (to this very week), with two much buzzed-about books: Alex Mar’s Witches of America and Stacy Schiff’s The Witches: Salem, 1962. Shows with Subscription Benefits. Although modern science has silenced the vampire fears of the past, people who call themselves vampires do exist. From the 1400s through the 1700s, it's estimated that as many as 100,000 people were executed — most of them women. The state and its spiritual and cultural capital New Orleans embrace the power of its Voodoo Queens both in history and present. History of Witches. [73] Apr 12, 2022 · Throughout history, claiming magical ability also helped people born in poverty rise up through social classes. Mythical and real, witches have a long and varied history that traces back to the start of civilization. Jan 9, 2020 · For centuries it was common for people to believe in witches. The witch trials that took place in Salem, Massachusetts, from 1692 to 1693 may be the most infamous, but they hardly stand alone. 1470-1533). And unlike figures such as Hecate and Grendel’s Mother, the witches on this list come from more than mere pantheons and poems; these bogeymen were thought to be totally real. ⭐ Learn more about witches and witchcraft at Outfit4Events. And while these witches Jun 16, 2023 · The Brazen Bull. Leopoldina Smethwyck (1829-1910) became the first witch to referee a Quidditch match. Mar 23, 2021 · The accused witches were dragged to the nearest body of water, stripped to their undergarments, tied up, and thrown into the water. In England, witch-hunting would reach its apex in 1644 to 1647 due to the efforts of Puritan Matthew Hopkins. Denny presents a collection of portraits and insights gathered from three years spent meeting and photographing a diverse group of witches around the US. Top 10 REAL Witches In History Scarier Than DemonsSubscribe To Most Amazing Top 10: http://bit. Regular hunts and trials for them were organised across Europe and North America. But there are other terrible witch trials throughout history, like the Affair of the Poisons, the Northamptonshire Witch Trials and the Great Scottish Witch Hunt, that all saw thousands of people executed for witchcraft. The Bell Witch is the most famous witch in American folklore, and her story is the kind that you’d tell around a campfire. To protect the civil rights of witches worldwide, she formed the Witches’ League for Public Awareness as well as the Cabot Tradition of the Science of Witchcraft. They were part of a long story of witch hunts that began in Europe in the 14th century. Isobel Gowdie was a famous witch who lived in Scotland during the 17th century. Rowling started dabbling in the American history of witches, we had our own traditions: Native American myths, the Salem Witch Trials, Bewitched, the 1970s resurgence, and the current The witch hunts that took place between the 15th and 18th centuries brought forth many famous cases of women and men who were accused of witchcraft. Our Favourite Witches from Films, TV and Books to Inspire your Halloween Costume Oct 24, 2023 · This was what life was like during witch trials. ⭐ Burning witches at the stake was practised in Bohemian lands as well as many others. Famous Celtic Witches. In more recent times, we have more reliable documentary evidence of real or supposed witches. Yet they all had one thing in common—the world remembers them as witches and warlocks. Perhaps my favorite famous witch in history is the Scottish witch Isobel Gowdie. 10. What makes a witch “notable” in history?u003c/h2u003e Aug 21, 2024 · Saul and the Witch of Endor, 1526. Mar 1, 2024 · Witches have been a big part of folklore and fantasy stories since the dawn of man. Let’s meet them! 25 Famous Witches in History 1. Jul 21, 2023 · Some of the most famous witches in history include Catherine Montvoisin, who led a secret network of criminals in 17th-century France, and Marie Laveau, the voodoo queen of New Orleans. But in the past, there were people who were known as witches. Mar 15, 2023 · Happy Women’s History Month! We all know about fictional witches like Circe, Nancy Downs, and the Sanderson Sisters. These lesser-known persecutions point to a broader 20 Famous Witches in Mythology and FolkloreExplore the enchanting world of witches with our video, "20 Famous Witches in Mythology and Folklore"! From the en Sep 20, 2023 · With that being said, there are some pretty powerful Italian witches in history. 10 Moll Dyer Nov 5, 2024 · With witches now crossing over into pop culture with shows such as WandaVision and Chilling Adventures of Sabrina and other media, witches have never been more popular. Their presence is seen in various texts across continents and is now taking over pop Aug 24, 2018 · My first encounter with the figure of a witch in popular culture—apart from those in kids’ movies like Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty” and M-G-M’s “The Wizard of Oz,” or in books like Oct 10, 2024 · u003cpu003eSome of the most famous witches in history include figures like Hecate from Greek mythology, the legendary Morgan le Fay from Arthurian legends, and real-life witches such as the Salem witch trials' Tituba and the English witch Mother Shipton. Aug 30, 2023 · Are witches real? “Witchcraft, as we The persecution of witches in history In 1692, accused witches were charged and executed for witchcraft in Salem, Massachusetts. empbkepqabzujkgjeagjectvtdwkpqpyrsiyyxuhumpdqvtwrwioczax