The role of magic in society

• Many believed some could harness supernatural forces for good or ill
• In parts of France when the wine harvest failed, villagers whipped a statue of the saint that failed them
• Cunning folk


  Called on to intervene in matters of illness, crop failure or bewitchment
• Superstitious practices


  • Objects such as images and stones could become vessels of magical power and could aid people
  • Garlic was used to prevent evil spirits entering the house
• Black magic


  • Used to kill beasts and individuals
  • Caused a harvest to spoil
  • Believed to be used by witches in a pact with the devil
• Cunning folk


  • Older, single women
  • Typically practiced white magic
• White magic


  Produces good results
• The church

  A safeguard against dangers through prayers, exorcisms, holy water, blessings and other rituals
• Black magic


  Causes harm
• The presence of magic gave people a way to cope with wars, death and disease