The frequency and geography of persecutions Flashcards
(7 cards)
What was the frequency of persecutions like during this period ?
1560’s it was increasing
Peaked in 1580’s
Declined after 1630’s
In a 2 year period due to Hopkins persistence , In EA numbers rose so the 20% of those killed for WC were in that 2 year period
Why did the hunts end as quickly as they started ?
Cost of imprisonment and the costs of assizes and executions
Fees of Hopkins and Stearne
Traditional authority was restoring
End of the civil war
Preaching campaign against the witchfinders in huntingdonshire
What was the nature of those persecuted ?
1 acusation would lead to 2 others 2 confess or be accused
Accusation would be brought to / about the place of the individual
Give an example of how acusations could get out of hand during this time ?
Manningtree where the arrest of Elizabeth clarke caused the arrests of 5 others
How did Gender impact prosecutions
Trials seen as an intentional form of violence against women - accusations were based around female tasks like the home / food prep
Many women involved in agriculture were accused when things went wrong and engaging in sexual activity with the devil
How did Class impact prosecutions ?
Many of the accused and accusers where illiterate suggesting they were neighbours
Acusers more likely to be literate
Witnesses were more likely to be literate like landowners or clergy
What was the geography of the prosecutions ?
Usually centred around east anglia
Essex
Suffolk
Northfolk
Huntingdonshire
Northamptonshire
Bedfordshire
Cambridgeshire
