The Story of Witches: Folklore, History and Superstition

The Story of Witches traces changing ideas about witches through myth, legend, fairy tale, history and superstition. Willow Winsham begins with figures and motifs including Hekate, Baba Yaga, shape-shifting hares and the witches of Macbeth, showing how stories have shaped the witch’s many identities.

The book then examines popular beliefs surrounding witch trials in Europe and the United States, before turning to modern developments. It considers the reclamation and reinvention of the witch, alongside the Wheel of the Year, Wicca and contemporary Witchcraft. Throughout, historical accounts and cultural traditions are set beside the question of what the past can teach about persecution and representation.