The Witch Hammer

The Witch Hammer — a notorious guide for witch hunters, written by monk Heinrich Kramer and Dean of the University of Cologne Jacob Sprenger. The book was published in 1487 and underwent 29 reprints, gaining equal popularity across a Europe torn by religious schism. Most researchers lean towards the version that with the help of this book, Heinrich Kramer attempted to justify his own inquisitorial activities, which led to the burning of two hundred women and his disgraceful expulsion from the inquisitorial office for fanaticism and cruelty. The result turned out to be exactly the opposite of what was expected — the Inquisition, aimed at the destruction of heretics and religious free thinkers, condemned the author himself in 1490