The Witch Trials

The course begins by setting the stage for the witch trials – how the witch trials began, how they came to be in the UK and why they flourished.

You’ll learn about medieval society, how King James VI of Scotland became James I of England, and why he carried out witch hunts. You’ll also gain insight into the malleus Maleficarum and other important texts that helped enforce how witch trials were conducted and punishments exacted.

From there, we take an in-depth look into the various witch trials and hunts across Europe. Starting with Scotland, you’ll be taken through the country’s witch trials and their outcomes. You’ll learn about England's most prominent witch trials and the Witchfinder General and his employment to hunt and execute witches. We’ll also look into the witch hunts of Wales and Ireland, and explore the witch trials of Europe – covering Spain, Scandinavia and Germany.

Finally, you’ll learn about the Salem witch trials and how they came to be. You will be introduced to Tituba and Susanna and be able to read first-hand accounts from their trials. We’ll also find out about the end of witch-hunting and the discovery of science.

By studying this course, you will:

• Become familiar with medieval life
• Understand how the witch trials began
• Become familiar with the rule of King James VI of Scotland/King James I of England
• Discover witch-hunting texts of the time
• Learn about the witch hunts and trials in England, Scotland, Wales, Ireland, and Europe
• Explore the Salem witch trials
• Learn how witch-hunting ended

The Witch Trials Diploma Course will benefit those who enjoy learning about history, particularly if you have an interest in Medieval Britain, the witch trials or witchcraft. It will also be very beneficial to those who may have connections to the people mentioned in the trials and would like to engage with their heritage.