North Berwick - causes of persecutions Flashcards
(11 cards)
what was the nature of witch-hunting in late 16th century Scotland?
majority of trials took place in the South where there was more contact with England
accusations tended to peak at times of crisis
why was Gilly Duncan accused?
she was reported to have unnatural healing abilities, visiting those that were sick or disabled
- neighbours started rumours that dark forces were at play
Gilly Duncan’s interrogation
questioned about her healing by David Seaton
she remained silent so Seaton tortured her using thumb screws and cords around her head
Seaton searched for a witch’s mark and found one on her throat
Gilly Duncan’s confession
confessed after the witch’s mark was found
named three other people
- Agnes Sampson
- Agnes Tompson
- Doctor Fian
why did King James voyage to Denmark?
marriage to 14 year old Anne of Denmark
why is James’ trip to Denmark significant?
whilst there, he met with a number of scientists and philosophers with a strong belief in witch trials
what happened on James’ return journey from Denmark?
treacherous - one ship was lost
witches were blamed
how did James’ trip to Denmark impact his views on witches?
witches blamed for inconveniences (e.g the storm)
James’ conviction against witches was strengthened by conversation with leading courtiers
meeting with scientists and philosophers
- e.g met theologian Niels Hemmingsen
how was widespread witch-hunt already possible in Scotland?
Duncan’s confession was a catalyst as she named 3 other people under confession
Scotland had deep belief in fairies and magic - from which a belief in witchcraft is not too dissimilar
what influence did Danish witch-hunting have on Scotland?
Scotland’s Protestant Reformation shared many characteristics with Denmark
- both had trials based on accusations of hidden Catholicism
July 1590: news reaches Scotland that a number of witches in Denmark had been arrested for conjuring up storms that prevented Anne from travelling
what was the role of Anna Koldings?
suspected of disturbing the voyages of Anne and James
interrogated and gave up 5 names of other women involved, all of whom confessed
she was burned at the stake and at least 12 other women were executed
