Diane Purkiss
Professor of English literature and scholar of witchcraft and folklore, author of Troublesome Things and The Witch in History, speaking here about early modern beliefs in fairies.
Best podcasts with Diane Purkiss
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Jan 1, 2026 • 43min
Enchanted Realms: Fairies in the 16th Century
Professor Diane Purkiss, a scholar of witchcraft and folklore, joins Professor Suzannah Lipscomb to explore the menacing reality of 16th-century fairies. They debunk the Tinkerbell myth, revealing fairies as dangerous beings involved in child-snatching and seduction. Purkiss explains their role in significant life transitions and challenges the views of witch trials, where fairies were often misinterpreted as demonic. The conversation delves into fairy tales as a way for women to address taboo issues and the broader societal implications of belief in these supernatural figures.
Feb 25, 2024 • 47min
Fairies, witches, and changelings - Diane Purkiss | Maiden Mother Matriarch 55
Diane Purkiss, a Professor of English Literature at the University of Oxford and author of books on fairies and witches, discusses the cultural significance of fairy stories linked to motherhood and childbirth. She explores the psychological and practical functions of these narratives and their enduring appeal. The podcast delves into the historical connections between fairies, witches, and child demons, examining their roles in folklore and societal beliefs.
