The Witch Hammer, also known as the Malleus Maleficarum, was a document published in 1487 by two German Dominican monks - Heinrich Kramer and Jacob Sprenger. The book was essentially a guide for identifying, prosecuting, and executing witches, as well as a justification for the witch trials that were rampant during the time. The Witch Hammer was written during the height of the witch-hunt hysteria, which peaked in Europe between the 15th and 18th centuries. The authors claimed that they had written the book in response to the increasing number of witches and the threat they posed to society. They argued that witches were in league with the devil, could cause harm to others through their magic, and were responsible for a wide range of societal ills. In the book, Kramer and Sprenger provided detailed instructions for identifying witches and conducting witch trials.
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The Malleus codified the folklore and beliefs of the Alpine peasants and was dedicated to the implementation of Exodus 22 18 You shall not permit a sorceress to live. Over time, heretical elements had merged with folklore elements such as the wild ride, so differentiating witchcraft cases with prominent heresy from others was not possible.
In the book, Kramer and Sprenger provided detailed instructions for identifying witches and conducting witch trials. They listed various signs and symptoms that were believed to be indicative of witchcraft, such as physical deformities, unusual behavior, and strange markings on the body. They also outlined a series of tests that could be used to determine guilt or innocence, including the infamous "swimming test" where an accused witch would be thrown into water - if they floated, they were deemed guilty.
Malleus Maleficarum – The Witch Hammer
Legendary Witchhunter’s manual Malleus Maleficarum (The Witch Hammer) by Heinrich Kramer as LIMITED COLLECTOR’S Edition (Hand-numbered & limited to 666 copies) with Gold details on cover, spine and back. Hardcover 1st edition. Size 27cm x 23, 270 pages, illustrated with 28 original pictures, originally from 1486, languege: english (Montague Summers translation). Hexenhammer Books 2023.
“Certain it is that the Malleus Maleficarum is the most solid, the most important work in the whole vast library of witchcraft. One turns to it again and again with edification and interest: From the point of psychology, from the point of jurisprudence, from the point of history, it is supreme.” – Montague Summers
“But the theory that modern witches are tainted with this sort of diabolic filthiness is not substantiated only in our opinion, since the expert testimony of the witches themselves has made all things credible; and that they do not now, as in the past, subject themselves unwillingly, but willingly embrace this most foul and miserable servitude.” Heinrich Kramer
“The Malleus Maleficarum is one of the world’s few books written ‘sub specie aeternitatis’. – Montague Summers
Collectors hand-numbered edition made only 666 copies. Book is bound roundspined hardcover with gold highlights on cover, spine and back. Red page marker ribbon is included. Book has pages 270. Language is english. Hexenhammer Books 2023: limited red/gold edition. Originally from 1486.
This book is a true rare treasure for every book collector and to everyone who is interested occult subjects like witchcraft, magic, supernatural and demonology. We hope that our customers enjoy this book as much as we do in Hexenhammer!
ShareThe Witch Hammer by Heinrich Kramer
Occult Witchcraft Grimoire Collector’s Limited Edition orig. 1486
Legendary Witchhunter’s manual Malleus Maleficarum (The Witch Hammer) by Heinrich Kramer as LIMITED COLLECTOR’S Edition (Hand-numbered & limited to 666 copies) with Gold details on cover, spine and back. Hardcover 1st edition. Size 27cm x 23, 270 pages, illustrated with 28 original pictures, originally from 1486, languege: english (Montague Summers translation). Hexenhammer Books 2023.
“Certain it is that the Malleus Maleficarum is the most solid, the most important work in the whole vast library of witchcraft. One turns to it again and again with edification and interest: From the point of psychology, from the point of jurisprudence, from the point of history, it is supreme.” – Montague Summers
“But the theory that modern witches are tainted with this sort of diabolic filthiness is not substantiated only in our opinion, since the expert testimony of the witches themselves has made all things credible; and that they do not now, as in the past, subject themselves unwillingly, but willingly embrace this most foul and miserable servitude.” Heinrich Kramer
“The Malleus Maleficarum is one of the world’s few books written ‘sub specie aeternitatis’. – Montague Summers
Collectors hand-numbered edition made only 666 copies. Book is bound roundspined hardcover with gold highlights on cover, spine and back. Red page marker ribbon is included. Book has pages 270. Language is english. Hexenhammer Books 2023: limited red/gold edition. Originally from 1486.
This book is a true rare treasure for every book collector and to everyone who is interested occult subjects like witchcraft, magic, supernatural and demonology. We hope that our customers enjoy this book as much as we do in Hexenhammer!
The Malleus doesn’t however mention the devil’s mark, familiar spirits, or the feasting of the sabbat, all of which became common in trials over the proceeding 200 year. This shows that it was not as much the Malleus’ new contributions to the witchcraft phenomenon that caused belief in witchcraft to rapidly grow, but rather its careful argumentation and reasoning.
The Witch Hammer was widely circulated and quickly became one of the most influential books on witchcraft. It provided a framework for witch hunting and fueled the hysteria that culminated in the death of thousands of innocent people, mostly women, across Europe and the American colonies. The book was not without its critics, however. Some clerics and legal scholars questioned its legitimacy and denounced its methods. Despite its controversial legacy, The Witch Hammer remains an important historical document. It offers insights into the mindset and beliefs of people during the time and provides a grim reminder of the dangers of widespread fear and hysteria. The book serves as a cautionary tale about the consequences of scapegoating and the dangers of unchecked power in the hands of those who seek to eradicate perceived threats..
Reviews for "The Witch Hammer's Connection to Magic and Folklore"
1. Sara - 1 star - I was really disappointed by "The Witch Hammer". The hype around this book made me have high expectations, but it fell flat for me. The characters were one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it hard to connect with them. The plot was also slow-paced and didn't have enough suspense to keep me engaged. Overall, I found it to be a forgettable read that didn't live up to the hype.
2. Mark - 2 stars - "The Witch Hammer" was not my cup of tea. The writing style was overly verbose and filled with unnecessary details, making it a chore to read. The author seemed more focused on showcasing their knowledge of historical facts rather than creating an engaging story. Additionally, the portrayal of witches and witch trials lacked nuance and sensitivity, which left a bad taste in my mouth. I was hoping for a captivating historical fiction novel, but unfortunately, this book missed the mark for me.
3. Jennifer - 2 stars - I found "The Witch Hammer" to be predictable and unoriginal. The story followed the typical tropes and cliches of the witch trial genre without offering anything new or thought-provoking. The character development was lackluster, and I couldn't help but feel disconnected from them. The pacing was also inconsistent, with some parts dragging on while others felt rushed. Overall, I expected more from this book, and it left me feeling underwhelmed.