Witchcraft, Religion and Suicides in the Light of the Witch Hammer and Own Cases

A discussion of superstitious belief & the concept of illness. Witchcraft is described as a projection of forbidden impulses & behaviors into external, feared objects. Throughout history, it has been believed that illnesses & abnormalities are caused by “..witches, demons, deceased forefathers, malevolent gods, bad weather, stars, & the moon.” (p.47) The Witch Hammer was published in 1478 by 2 German black friars & describes witchcraft & sorcery. (NBB)