Witchcraft and Masculinities in Early Modern Europe (Palgrave Historical Studies in Witchcraft and Magic) by Alison Rowlands (Editor) (1-Nov-2009) Hardcover

In this scholarly exploration, the complexities of masculinity within the context of witchcraft in early modern Europe are scrutinized. The editor, Alison Rowlands, brings together a collection of essays that delve into how societal norms around masculinity influenced, and were influenced by, the witch hunts and trials of the time. The work challenges existing narratives that primarily focus on women as victims and offers a nuanced view of male participation in witchcraft-related activities.

Rowlands' compilation reveals the multifaceted roles men played, whether as accusers, judges, or even victims of witchcraft accusations themselves. The historical analysis highlights how fears surrounding witchcraft intersected with the expectations of masculinity, shedding light on the anxieties of male identity during a tumultuous period in European history.

Through rigorous research and engaging writing, this collection provides fresh perspectives that significantly enhance our understanding of early modern witchcraft, paving the way for a more inclusive historiography that acknowledges the vital roles of men in these historical narratives. This important work is essential for historians and anyone interested in the interplay between gender and historical events.