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History Extra podcast

Practical magic: curses, spells & cunning folk

Aug 18, 2024
Tabitha Stanmore, an author specializing in medieval magic, discusses the fascinating lives of cunning folk in Tudor England. She delves into how these practitioners provided spells for love and justice, emphasizing their powerful community roles. The conversation uncovers the contrast between cunning folk and witches, revealing societal pressures driving people to seek magical aid. Unique rituals, including the intriguing use of personal items in sympathy magic, highlight a blend of creativity and tradition. The podcast also connects historical practices to modern beliefs in manifestation.
35:55

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Quick takeaways

  • Cunning folk in medieval England performed practical magic for community needs, ranging from love spells to healing rituals, reflecting their significant societal roles.
  • Despite facing legal scrutiny that criminalized harmful magic, cunning folk were generally seen as helpful community members rather than witches, highlighting a key distinction in societal perceptions of magic.

Deep dives

Role and Characteristics of Cunning Folk

Cunning folk were practitioners of everyday magic in medieval and Tudor England, known for their practical skills in using spells and charms to effect change in their communities. They ranged in expertise from simple spells for finding lost goods to complex healing rituals, and they were not limited to a particular social status or gender, with both men and women participating as cunning practitioners. Cunning folk were often embedded in their communities, serving as tailors, farmers, or even physicians, while moonlighting as magical service providers. Their popularity stemmed from their ability to offer valuable solutions to common problems faced by individuals, enhancing their visibility and reputation within their local areas.

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