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Superstition and Witchcraft in East Anglia
Very appropriately for the time of year, on Wednesday 28th October, a capacity audience listened to Stuart Bowell on the topics of “Superstition & Witchcraft in East Anglia”. Having established by a show of hands how many of us are superstitious he went on to unfold a tale of horror on witchcraft in this region. He explained to a fascinated audience how witchcraft was blamed on such everyday occurrences as a cow running dry, milk failing to churn to butter, and various childhood ailments and afflictions.
We listened with mounting horror to tales of summary seizure and torture to procure “confessions”. We heard of appalling brutalities and trials by ordeal.
There were financial incentives given to “finding” witches and the name of Matthew Hopkins – Witchfinder General was mentioned. He did well in his infamous pursuit, the splendid 17th Century House in Ipswich was his home. It is now a branch of Lakeland!!
Because of the proximity of Halloween the lecture concluded with mention of the fun attached to that festival. It was altogether and interesting and entertaining afternoon. Jean Oldham
Monthly Meeting -