This self-guided short course provides an introduction to European witchcraft history from the fifteenth century to the present. Using a range of primary sources, the course explores important themes and questions relating to witchcraft history, examining how witchcraft has been imagined and understood at different times and in different places, and why alleged witches were prosecuted.  

How is the course structured? 

This self-guided short course is 100% online. The resources are structured but can be dipped into at any time, so you can work through them at your own pace and convenience. Through this unit you can access:

• 7 recorded lectures by historical experts 
• Access to our curated resource unit 
• 2 recorded workshop sessions and a discussion session

These materials were originally compiled and produced as part of our live short course on Witchcraft, Werewolves and Magic in European History, which ran from September to December 2024.

What participants in the course said:

“Every lecture was fascinating.”

“It's always extremely interesting to listen to (and talk to) specialists in the field.”

“I thought that the course was really well organised, very informative and gave an excellent introduction to the topic. Each session was interesting and the course leaders ensured that their vast knowledge of and expertise in their subject was presented in a format which was accessible to all. I also really appreciated being able to access the sessions later as I did miss one and it was great to be able to catch up with the webinar later.”

“I knew only a little about Witchcraft in Europe before taking this course. I now feel much more informed and knowledgeable and I have undertaken further reading as a consequence. The course has also demonstrated to me that I still have the ability to study! I haven't studied formally for 30 years. The course has also encouraged me to take up some further study in the future.”