Witchcraft

• When did attitudes towards witchcraft become harsher in England?

  In the 16th century
• What law did Henry VIII enact regarding witchcraft in 1542?

  It made witchcraft a crime punishable by death
• What were some reasons for the growing suspicion of witches in the 16th century?

  Economic troubles, fear of vagabonds, the Reformation, and general uncertainty
• Who introduced a new law that allowed witchcraft to be tried in common courts?

  Elizabeth I
• Why were common courts significant in witchcraft trials?

  They gave harsher punishments than Church courts
• Who was an enthusiastic witch hunter and wrote 'Demonologie'?

  James I
• What was the purpose of James I's book 'Demonologie'?

  It provided instructions on catching and interrogating witches
• What act did James I pass in 1604 regarding witchcraft?

  The Witchcraft and Conjuration Act
• What penalty did the Witchcraft and Conjuration Act impose?

  It imposed the death penalty for summoning evil spirits
• Who were tasked with finding witches during this period?

  Justices of the Peace (JPs)
• What actions did Justices of the Peace (JPs) take regarding witch hunters?

  They might pay large sums of money to witch hunters
• Who appointed himself as Witchfinder General between 1645-47?

  Matthew Hopkins
• What was the outcome of Matthew Hopkins' witch hunts?

  They led to the death of around 112 people
• What factors contributed to the harsher attitudes towards witchcraft in the 16th century?

  • Economic troubles (e.g., death of livestock)
  • Fear of vagabonds
  • The Reformation's desire to cleanse spiritual crises
  • General uncertainty during social change
• What were the implications of the changes in witchcraft laws during the 16th and 17th centuries?

  • Increased severity of punishments
  • Shift from Church courts to common courts
  • Rise in witch hunts and public hysteria
  • Empowerment of individuals like Matthew Hopkins