Premodern Beliefs and Witch Trials in a Swedish Province, 1669-1672 1st Edition Göran Malmstedt

Premodern Beliefs and Witch Trials in a Swedish Province, 1669-1672 – Ebook Instant Download/Delivery ISBN(s): 9783030761196,9783030761202,3030761193,3030761207

Product details:

• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 3030761193
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-3030761196
• Author: Göran Malmstedt

This book examines the worldview and perceptions of reality that formed the setting for the witch trials held in the Swedish province of Bohuslän in 1669-1672. The first part of the book explores the conduct of the trials and provides, among other things, an analysis of the defendants and of the various accusations from neighbours and the court. The following parts analyse the perceptions of reality found in the statements made in court by witnesses and the accused. The topics addressed include the relationship between dreams and reality, belief in shape-shifting, the power of words, emotions, and magically charged matters, as well as perceptions of God and the Devil. The beliefs that surfaced during the trials were part of a general mentality that characterised people’s perception of the world, both before and after the trials. As the records from the prolonged cross-examinations of the accused are unusually detailed, the defendant’s statements, together with accusations, testimonies,and the courts’ questions, provides a unique insight into premodern worldviews.

Table contents:

1. Introduction
Part I. The Bohuslän Witch Trials
2. The Conduct of the Trials
3. Accused and Accusations
4. Lost at Sea
Part II. Dimensions of Reality
5. Dreams and Reality
6. Shape-Shifting
Part III. Magical Domains
7. Powerful Emotions
8. Spells and Charms
9. Charged Matter
Part IV. Supernatural Powers
10. God’s Children
11. In the Clutches of Satan
12. Concluding Discussion: An Enchanted World

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