Liber Poenitentialis

Set of 7th-century ecclesiastical laws applied to women – and only women – perfoming acts such as divination, raising storms, or murder by the use of magic.

Matthew Hopkins


English witch-hunter who claimed to hold the office of Witchfinder General, although that title was never bestowed by Parliament.

Seely wights

Fairy-like creatures at the centre of a shamanistic Scottish cult that existed in the 16th century. Members claimed to be able to enter into a trance which allowed them to fly out at night on swallows, and join with the seely wights.

Black cat

The numerous folk beliefs about black cats, and cats in general, are often contradictory. Superstitions surrounding black cats are almost certainly some of the most prevalent even today, along with the number thirteen and walking under a ladder.

Osculum infame

Ritual of a witch paying homage to the Devil by kissing his genitals, anus or feet.

Newes from Scotland

1591 pamphlet describing the North Berwick witch trials in Scotland, detailing the confessions given by the accused witches before the King.

Maleficium

Act of sorcery, historically usually performed by a witch, intended to cause harm or injury.