Behind the Devil’s Shield: Counter-Magic in Early New England
Date/Time
Date(s) - 03/25/2018
3:00 pm
Location
Pickering House
Categories
“Now to use a Charm against a Charm, or to use a Devils Shield against a Devils Sword, Who can with a good conscience try?” — Cotton Mather
Early New England ministers took a hard line against the practice of magic. All magic, whether harmful or beneficial in intention, was believed to be demonic. The archaeological and architectural records show us that things weren’t so black and white for their congregations. This lecture will explore evidence for the practice of protective counter-magic in 17th and 18th century New England, including witch bottles, deliberate concealments, and ritual marks on historic timber, a few right here in Salem, Massachusetts!
Alyssa G.A. Conary is a burgeoning historian and writer, a museum professional, and a candidate for the M.A. in History at Salem State University. In 2015, she co-founded the Salem Historical Society with a group of museum colleagues and is currently serving as President of the organization’s Board of Trustees. Alyssa’s main areas of historical interest are witchcraft and apotropaia, medieval and early modern England, and Colonial New England. She lives in Salem with her husband and their three cats and enjoys traveling and singing jazz.
$10.00 for members; $15.00 for non-members
Reserve now @ pickeringhouse1@gmail.com
Space is limited. Reservations are a must.