How do you spot a witch? This notorious 15th-century book gave instructions – and helped execute thousands of women
- Written by: Melissa Chim, Adjunct Professor and Reference Librarian, General Theological Seminary
The 'Malleus Maleficarum,' a medieval handbook, was used to try and execute supposed witches. Its influence lasted for centuries – including at the Salem Witch Trials. Jonathan Wiggs/The Boston Globe via Getty ImagesBooks have always had the power to cast a spell over their readers – figuratively.
But one book that was quite popular...