1) The connection and overlap between science and magic
The most relatable concept to my career that we have discussed is the connection between science and magic, specifically with alchemy. Alchemy started with the idea that other metals can be turned into gold. It's the origin of the word chemistry. Although you can't actually turn copper into gold, chemistry strives to study the elements and to be able to convert materials into different ones. This was considered magic at the time, and sometimes even banned from its association with the occult.
We normally think of magic and science, or religion and science, always in conflict. They are always though to contradict each other. If you do not understand science, you will assume its magic. If you do not understand magic or religion, you will assume that there is some sort of scientific explanation. They are both ways of gathering information and studying our surrounding. Magic, religion, and science are all basic human tendencies to reduce uncertainty in attempt to better understand our world.
2) Witches weren't ever witches
In popular media, witches are often romanticized and stereotyped into iconic characters, such as in Halloweentown. These characters take pride in their witchcraft, and often publicly display their powers, whether thats for good or evil. This led me to expect the witches in Salem to do the same. However, this is incredibly historically wrong. The witches in Salem were entirely innocent. None of them, except perhaps Tituba, were actually practicing and proud witches. Often their confessions were protective and survival mechanisms.
Salem started with small village feuds and rumors, and then it escalated into a frenzy of fear and religious identity. What was once a true narrative became a fluster of accusations and exaggerated storytelling. The idea of the witch actually existing became lost in translation.
3) Diversity in the modern witch community
Another thing that stuck out to me is the diversity in the modern witch community today. Witches have always historically been a part of the "other" side of society, excluded from "normal" people. They have been discriminated and persecuted, much like many minority populations. Many ethnic minorities and the LGBTQ+ community are drawn to the witch community for this reason. There is a common theme of finding safety in those similar to you, and we can all relate to the sad truth that in some form or another we do not feel accepted in all of society. Witches today have formed in a strong community, connected through the online network to create a beautiful virtual coven.
4) Misogyny and sexuality in Salem witch trials
The witch trials were fueled by fear and an underlying hatred and suspicion for women. Without sexism, the witch trials may have had a different outcome. The idea that women are inferior, sexually tempting beings, and wicked helped contribute to witch stereotypes today. The "bad witch" is an ugly, wrinkled, and old lady, which further cements that a woman's value lays in her beauty and appearance.
Another stereotypical witch on the other hand is beautiful, seemingly kind, and smart, but she often uses her powers to manipulate men. One historical document details how women cry and show emotion to deceive men and hide their true intentions. Women are also nasty sluts and use their sexual energy to get what they want. Some witches were even accused of having sex with the devil. The obsession with a woman's beauty and sexuality shows how men actually perceive women. They believe that women cannot be smart or cunning, so they blame it on their sexuality.
5) Religious beliefs in Salem
The religious beliefs in Salem sound hardcore and insane today, but it is not that outrageous in context. Puritan beliefs of this village eliminated choice in what to believe. However, people simply were never exposed to anything else. They grew up with these beliefs and practices ingrained in their blood. It was all they ever knew. It became their identity. When something threatened that, such as the evil witch, their identity was also threatened. This fear eventually led to the hysteria of the violent and escalated Salem witch trials.
Children were the origin of these beliefs. You grew up in a culture where your life is consumed by the forces of good and evil, god and the devil. Imagination and the lack of brain development led them to possibly form delusions and make questionable choices. However, they were literally kids and did not know anything else. Perhaps they never processed any of it. Maybe they thought it was some surreal sort of play time. It is sad that the lack of adult support and emotional processing skills led to the deaths of dozens of people.
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