Postgraduate summer course “Witchcraft Across Classical, Medieval, and Early-Modern Cultures in Europe: Researching and Teaching a Long-Term Historical Issue”

 

• at Central European University (CEU) in Budapest, Hungary, July 20 – July 25, 2021

This course aims to lay out the rise and downturn of witch-beliefs in medieval and early modern Europe, tracing the multifaceted roots leading to their construction, from the Classical Greek and Roman literary traditions, to medieval lore and popular beliefs, up to the outburst of the “witch-craze” in early modern Europe. Particular emphasis will be given to the analysis of primary sources, the discussion of modern methodological approaches, and the instruments and places for research. Issues such as the gendering of witchcraft and male domination, along with the consideration of the various social, cultural, literary, legal, religious, economic, climatic aspects involved in determining the outbreak of the witch-craze, will contribute to foster reflection and discussion on topics that are relevant in the historical debate as well as in social practice. Among these, the process of stereotyping and scapegoating, the construction of identities, and ultimately, how socio-cultural categories can give shape to historical realities, which, in turn, can have an impact on the life of groups and individuals. 

Financial aid is available. 

For more information on how to apply see: https://summeruniversity.ceu.edu/witchcraft-in-cultures-2021