Lecture 7 - Witchcraft

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts from the lecture on the history of witchcraft and magic, aiding in understanding critical terms related to demonology, paganism, and historical witchcraft practices.

Pagan

A term used in historical discourse to describe polytheistic, idol-worshipping religions often seen as inferior or 'other' by monotheistic traditions.

Demonology

The study of demons or beliefs about demons, often focused on their characteristics and interactions with humans, particularly in a religious context.

Satanology

A theological study focused on the figure of Satan, including his nature, purpose, and influence in Christian doctrine.

Malleus Maleficarum

A late 15th-century treatise on witchcraft, written by Heinrich Kramer and Jacob Sprenger, used to justify the persecution of witches.

Formicarius

A work by Johannes Nider written in the early 15th century, discussing witchcraft and the justification of witch hunts.

Underworld

A term referring to the realm of the dead in various mythologies, often depicted as a place of punishment or shadowy existence.

Maleficium

A term used in medieval legal texts referring to harmful magic or sorcery.

Auguries

Omens interpreted from the behavior of birds or other natural signs, often used in ancient pagan practices.

Incantations

A series of words said as a magic spell, often found in various cultural and religious traditions.

Divination

The practice of seeking to foresee or foretell future events through supernatural means, often linked with rituals.