Halloween is approaching. In addition to preparing a costume and a mask, you should also learn about witches. Here you can read 13 things you definitely didn't know about witches. What are their habits? What does folklore say about them?
Are you looking forward to Halloween? We can't wait! That's why we prepared an article where you can read 13 things you didn't know about witches.
Witches have several holidays
In addition to Halloween, witches are also celebrated on Midsummer Night and Beltane (the first day of May).
In Sweden, witches are celebrated at Easter
In Sweden, it used to be believed that on Easter Sunday, witches gather on top of mountains. Today, this tradition has been preserved in such a form that on Easter Sunday, children dress up as witches and wizards and go around the surrounding houses to ask for sweets (similar to our masquerades).
There are several different witches
Different cultures have their own legends about witches. So we know the lore about witches of all possible ethnicities, different genders, ages, etc. Witches are also very different by profession. Some are primarily healers, others perform black magic on commission, and still others are concerned with protecting the weaker.
Witches mainly help.
In most folk traditions, witches are supposed to primarily help people in need. Of course, they also have the ability to deal damage, but that is not their primary role.
Witches belong to different religions.
The belief that all witches and wizards are members of the Wicca religion is incorrect. Some witches are atheists, others Buddhists, still others believe in Jesus.
Witches are a very popular pop culture motif.
In popular movies and books, witches are an extremely popular motif. However, even in pop culture we find witches of all possible professions, ages, beliefs, religions...
In movies and books, male wizards are represented almost as often as female ones. Likewise, folklore also speaks of male sorcerers.
Witches were persecuted in the past.
In stories, witches often persecute others, and in the past, women who were accused of witchcraft were persecuted and even executed.
Witches love pets.
In the books, witches are very fond of cats, but there are also witches who have owls, dogs, bunnies and snakes as pets.
Some witches are adored.
Some witches are downright adored and treated like goddesses.
The inspiration for the first ballet came from the witch motif.
The first ballet in 1581 is inspired by the witch motif.
Witches are associated with dance.
In the past, witches were associated with a strange and wild dance, which was also part of their magical ritual.
The first serious novel is named after a witch.
The first important novel, La Celestina, is named after the witch.
