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Witchcraft

Clary Croft

9781551097862
176 pages
Nimbus Publishing
Overview

Witchcraft. The subject evokes curiosity, fascination, and sometimes, abhorrence. In the Maritimes, a region with a rich tradition of storytelling, accounts of witchcraft are abundant.

In Witchcraft, folklorist Clary Croft explores the many examples of witchcraft identified in the Maritimes and explains their cultural origins—Scottish, Mi'kmaq, Acadian, German, among others. He finds example of spells, charms, and superstitions involving everything from animal horns and blood to salt and milk. Croft also traces witchcraft's more official history from the Maritimes' first witch trial in 1684—the trial of Jean Campagna—followed by others throughout the eighteenth, nineteenth, and twentieth centuries.

A thoroughly researched history of an often-misunderstood practice, Witchcraft is a rich source of Maritime folklore.

Author Bio
Clary Croft enjoys an eclectic career encompassing radio, television, stage, film, and numerous books, articles, and publications. He is best known for his continuing work with the collection of his late mentor, Dr. Helen Creighton. The Encyclopedia of Music in Canada has recognized him for his contribution to local folklore studies and for his ongoing research into the traditional music of the Maritimes.