Historical Evolution of Demonology

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Exploration of the historical context of demonology, tracing the emergence of beliefs in demons from the mid-1200s to the 1500s. The chapter discusses the evolution of demons as targeted entities during the Inquisition period, shifting from skepticism to affirmation of God's power. It also touches on the relationship between demons and faith, power dynamics, and their association with explaining unknown phenomena in medieval times.

Demons, spooky spirits, devils, fallen angles, hungry ghosts: every culture has them. And West Virginia University Religious Studies professor, demonologist and history buff Dr. Alyssa Beall runs down how humans have used myths and stories to explain the feelings that make our hairs stand up and our stomaches sink. Is possession a mental illness? Are demons pranksters from hell? Is your baby evil or just cranky? And why do we like to be scared and poke at the line between life and death? Also: demon dongs. Oh wow.

Follow Dr. Alyssa Beall at Instagram.com/religiontraveler

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