Witchcraft and magic have been part of human history for centuries. These practices involve the use of supernatural or mystical abilities to influence events, manipulate energies, and communicate with spiritual entities. Throughout time, different cultures and societies have developed their own beliefs and traditions regarding witchcraft and magic. In many ancient societies, witchcraft and magic were closely intertwined with religious practices. Shamans and medicine men/women often acted as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds, using their knowledge and skills to heal the sick, communicate with ancestors, and predict the future. However, with the rise of major religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, witchcraft and magic started to be viewed as sinful or demonic practices.
KULH1050 – Witchcraft and Magic
Lectures and seminars are given in English. All parts of the exam may be taken either in English or a Scandinavian language.
This course will look at aspects of the cultural history of magic with a focus on the period of the witch hunts in early modern Europe. It will explore how conceptions of magic, witchcraft and trolldom changed over time; how they were put to use in philosophical reflections, demonological manuals, legislative texts and oral traditions; and how these ideas became social realities.
From the 1500’s, combating witchcraft with legislation and judicial prosecution became an important concern for authorities all over Europe. Witchcraft trials consequently became a nexus between law, theology and the culture of the common people. In this course, the students will study the cultural and social basis of this development, and get to know a selection of Norwegian witchcraft trials. The students will also be introduced to the later redefinitions of magic expressed in modern occultism and neopaganism.
However, with the rise of major religions such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, witchcraft and magic started to be viewed as sinful or demonic practices. In medieval Europe, thousands of individuals, mostly women, were accused of witchcraft and faced persecution, torture, and execution for their alleged connections with evil forces. In more recent times, there has been a resurgence of interest in witchcraft and magic, often associated with neo-paganism and modern spirituality.
Learning outcome
Upon successful completion of the course, students are able to
- demonstrate an orientational knowledge in the history of magic and witchcraft in Europe, and are able to discuss historical implications of critical terms like magic, witchcraft, trolldom, esotericism, and occultism.
- identify different approaches to historiography and interpretation in the academic study of magic and witchcraft.
- perform a source critical contextualisation of a historical case example, by phrasing a precise question and employing an adequate historiographical approach.
- carry out team work and give oral presentations.
Many people are drawn to these practices as a means of self-discovery, empowerment, and connection with nature. Witches and practitioners of magic may engage in rituals, spells, divination, and other techniques to manifest their intentions and tap into unseen energies. While some may dismiss witchcraft and magic as mere superstition or fantasy, others believe in their real power and effectiveness. The debate between skeptics and believers continues, and it remains a highly controversial and misunderstood topic. It is important to note that witchcraft and magic can take many forms and vary greatly across cultures. Practices may include herbalism, crystal healing, tarot reading, astrology, and more. Some individuals may identify as witches, while others prefer the term "magician" or "energy worker." Regardless of one's personal beliefs, the study of witchcraft and magic provides insight into the human capacity to seek meaning, find connection, and explore the unknown. It is a reflection of our inherent curiosity and desire to uncover the mysteries of the universe. In conclusion, witchcraft and magic have played a significant role throughout history, with their perception and practice evolving over time. Whether viewed as ancient wisdom, religious heresy, or contemporary spirituality, these practices continue to captivate the human imagination and inspire individuals to explore the realms of the unseen..
Reviews for "The Modern Witch: A Look into Contemporary Practices"
1. Alice - 2/5 stars - I was really disappointed with "Witchcraft and Magic UIO." The storyline was extremely predictable, leaving no room for surprises. The characters felt one-dimensional and lacked depth, making it difficult to connect to their struggles. Additionally, the writing style was quite repetitive and lacked originality. Overall, I found the book to be mundane and unengaging.
2. John - 1/5 stars - "Witchcraft and Magic UIO" was a complete waste of time for me. The plot was confusing and poorly developed, making it challenging to follow along. The dialogue felt forced and unrealistic, and the character motivations were never adequately explored. This book had so much potential, but it fell short in every aspect. I struggled to finish it and would not recommend it to anyone.
3. Emma - 2/5 stars - I attempted to read "Witchcraft and Magic UIO," but I couldn't get past the first few chapters. The writing style was disjointed, making it difficult to grasp the storyline. The characters were forgettable, and their actions seemed random and inconsistent. The pacing was also quite slow, making it hard to stay engaged. Overall, I didn't enjoy this book and would not recommend it to others.