Magic in the Middle Ages
Magical thought has always attracted human imagination.
In the Middle Ages, magic was manifested in diverse forms, from
superstitious ideas and simple charms to complex processes and
rituals, aimed at exploring our world. Except for the so-called
witches everyone knows or at least heard about, monks, priests,
doctors, and scholars of that time practiced magic as well.
Season of the witch
Witchcraft has been documented throughout history as a fascinating piece of numerous cultures, from Haitian Voodoo to modern Wicca. In the Middle Ages, the culture of magic, specifically witchcraft, also found its historical place.
It’s interesting that medieval practice of magic was not yet imagined to be essentially ‘female’. In fact, according to court records from the first half of the 14th century, the majority of those tried for maleficium (meaning sorcery, or dark magic) were men.
Although according to estimates, in the period of greatest persecution (1500-1700) the overwhelming majority of executed victims were female (82%). Nearly half victims were murdered as a result of their supposed crime.
Here is something to add to your watchlist if you want to find out more about witches' medieval life.
Unlocking the secrets of creation
Long shrouded in secrecy, alchemy was once considered the highest of arts. Its legacy permeates our world till nowadays.
Medieval alchemy was a mixture of science, philosophy, and mysticism. And those who practiced this craft believed that success could only be achieved through purity of mind, body, and spirit.
It was theorized that to create any matter only four elements are needed: earth, air, fire, and water. Might seem simple at first glance, but the trick is in finding the right combination that will work. Whoever discovers this secret will be able to create any substance on earth including precious metals as well as elixirs to cure disease and prolong life.
Give the alchemy a chance to enchant you, find a few minutes to
visit an online exhibition.
Written in the stars
Eclipses, comets, and star and planet sightings mesmerize us and
inspire awe. In the medieval world, people believed that the radiant sun,
full moon, twinkling stars, and distant planets held great power
over their lives, the seasons, and daily activities.
Astronomy was a required field of study. By the end of 1500s, physicians across Europe were required by law
to calculate the position of the moon before carrying out
complicated medical procedures such as surgery or bleeding.
Interested? Look what advices
this medieval astroguide has for you.
Herbs, charms and talismans
In the Middle Ages, the dividing line between magic and medicine was not always obvious. Many recipes in medieval medical manuscripts mingle “charms and magic” with pharmaceutical remedies and medical manipulations.
Professional medical knowledge was mostly derived from antique theory and largely confined to monasteries and scholars. Those in need among ordinary people were more likely to turn to local people who had medical knowledge, derived from folk traditions and practical experience. Not only herbs but also amulets, charms, spells, and other magical practices were widely performed by means of natural forces at those times.
Want to know how it was to be ill in a medieval city? Jump quickly into
the Casebooks Project rabbit hole!