HIS389H1 Lecture Notes - Henry Chauncy, Walkern, Francis Hutchinson
Document Summary
Outline: a case study in belief and disbelief, jane wenham, 1712. 18th century sceptics- better not to start witchcraft trials. Francis hutchinson, historical essay on witchcraft, 1718- said witchcraft was medieval superstition, argues science has refuted it. Many agreed with him, that reason and science drove it out and witchcraft was only an illusion and any reality was false. Lets look at a late case: jane wenham with sir john powell. Phyllis j. guskin, the context of witchcraft: the case of jane wenham (1712), eighteenth century studies, Case stirred up 2 young women recent graduates of cambridge university, one defended the trial the other rejected arguments, not alone in writing- at least 8 pamphlets written, one written by a physician. Some had second editions, some had 5 editions. Anti-side produced biggest work substantial writing, more like a book. Half defend the witnesses and the jury"s verdict/ half reject.
