Women, Magic and Witchcraft in the Ancient World

Witchcraft, a phenomenon which was, and is still believed to have the power to influence the mind, body or possessions, has been in existence since the beginning of humanity. Magic users are believed to cause diseases, bad luck, sudden death, impotence and other such misfortunes. There are different reasons why a person may be accused of practicing magic and witchcraft, and this is evidenced by some of the objects he or she may possess. This book brings to surface some of the suggested indicators that show that one is a witch, magician or wizard; the reasons why he or she practices magic and witchcraft; and how magic and witchcraft came to be. The magic and witchcraft phenomena are mostly gender-oriented, with the woman being the accused. Research has shown that women in the ancient Greek and Roman world were in bondage and had to find other activities to free, and express, themselves, thus they are believed to have turned to witchcraft and magic practice for comfort and self-identity. Reasons as to why women are accused of practicing witchcraft and to verify if they are the only ones who practice this art or if men are involved, too, are also discussed in this book.