Magic carpet spirea and goldmound spirea are two popular varieties of spirea shrubs that are commonly used in landscaping. While they share some similarities, there are also some key differences between the two. Both magic carpet spirea and goldmound spirea are deciduous shrubs that are valued for their colorful foliage and compact growth habit. They both have vibrant leaves that change color throughout the seasons, with magic carpet spirea displaying shades of red, orange, and yellow, and goldmound spirea showcasing golden yellow leaves. Both varieties also produce small, pink flowers in the spring or early summer, adding further visual interest to the shrubs. In terms of size, magic carpet spirea tends to be slightly smaller than goldmound spirea.

Witch-hunts in early modern Europe (circa 1450-1750)

In this article we will take a look at the European witch hunts of circa 1450-1750, and their gender-selective aspects. Although both men and women were accused and executed for witchcraft in Europe during this era, roughly 75%-80% of those exposed to trial and execution were women.

It should be noted that when we study the pre-modern European witch craze, we find great variation over time and between different regions of Europe. The frenzy of the witch-hunts waxed and waned for roughly 300 years, and the dynamics – including gender-dynamics – could also vary greatly from one locality to the next. As an example, we know of only four executions for witchcraft in Ireland, while over 25,000 witches were killed in Germany. (Source: Jenny Gibbons, “Recent Developments in the Study of the Great European Witch Hunt”.) In England, over 90% of those accused of witchcraft were women, while Estonia had women accounting for less than half of those accused, and in Iceland only 10% of those accused of witchcraft were women. (Source: Robin Briggs, “Witches & Neighbours: The Social and Cultural Context of European Witchcraft”, pp. 260-61.)

The immense over-representation of women as victims in witch-trials and witch-executions in England (and in its colonies in North America) is probably one of the reasons why the English-speaking world tend to strongly associate witches, witch-trials and with-hunts with female victims. In essence, the English regional experience has been assumed, at least by English-speakers, to be typical for Europe as a whole.

In terms of size, magic carpet spirea tends to be slightly smaller than goldmound spirea. It typically reaches a height and width of around 1 to 2 feet, making it an excellent choice for smaller gardens or borders. Goldmound spirea, on the other hand, can grow up to 3 feet in height and width, making it a bit larger and more suitable for larger landscapes.

Were 9 million women burned as witches?

Is it true that 9 million women were burned as witches in Europe from the 14th to the 17th century CE? It is a frequently quoted number in non-academic literature, but it is not based on solid academic research. Instead, modern research points to roughly 40,000 to 50,000 witch executions in Europe between 1450 and 1750, and an estimated 75%-80% of those executed were women. That would put the number of executed women witches at 40,000 or less.

“The most dramatic [recent] changes in our vision of the Great Hunt [have] centred on the death toll,” notes researcher Jenny Gibbons, who points out that estimates made prior to the mid-1970s, when detailed research into trial records began, were almost 100% pure speculation. (Source: Jenny Gibbons, “Recent Developments in the Study of the Great European Witch Hunt”.)

One of the researchers who have worked to unveil and publish more accurate numbers is Robin Briggs.

“On the wilder shores of the feminist and witch-cult movements,” writes Briggs, “a potent myth has become established, to the effect that 9 million women were burned as witches in Europe; gendercide rather than genocide. This is an overestimate by a factor of up to 200, for the most reasonable modern estimates suggest perhaps 100,000 trials between 1450 and 1750, with something between 40,000 and 50,000 executions, of which 20 to 25 per cent were men. (…) “these figures are chilling enough, but they have to be set in the context of what was probably the harshest period of capital punishments in European history.” (Source: Robin Briggs, “Witches & Neighbours: The Social and Cultural Context of European Witchcraft”, p.8)

Researcher Brian Levack put the number of witch trials at approximately 110,000. It should be noted that this number is for trials, not convictions or executions. In many cases, Levack found evidence that a trial had occurred, but could not find information about its outcome. (Source: Brian Levack, “The Witch-Hunt in Early Modern Europe”)

Another difference between the two varieties is their foliage color. While both have attractive foliage, magic carpet spirea is known for its more vibrant and multi-colored leaves. As its name suggests, the leaves of magic carpet spirea resemble a colorful carpet, with hues of red, orange, and yellow blending together. Goldmound spirea, on the other hand, has leaves that are uniformly golden yellow, providing a more consistent and bright color. In terms of care, magic carpet spirea and goldmound spirea have similar requirements. Both varieties prefer full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. They are relatively low maintenance and do not require extensive pruning. However, it is recommended to prune them in early spring to maintain their compact shape and promote new growth. In summary, magic carpet spirea and goldmound spirea are two beautiful varieties of spirea shrubs that bring color and interest to any landscape. While they share some similarities in terms of their foliage and flowering habits, they also have some distinct differences in size and foliage color. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the specific preferences and needs of the gardener..

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