Witchcraft in Scandinavia. Representations of the Devil, Witch Trials, and Sorcery

In Scandinavia, the image of Satan was formed not only based on biblical narratives. Local folklore legends about evil spirits such as trolls, household tomten, and water spirits were also woven into the Christian narrative and over time became identified with devilish power.

Later, with the support of the state, the church began its fight against superstitions and magic, resulting in trials of those accused of witchcraft. This book, dedicated to the unique representations of the devil, demons, and witchcraft in Scandinavia, examines the historical backgrounds and the course of witch trials in northern countries. Relying on ancient sagas, codifications of laws, judicial protocols, and folklore, the author introduces the reader to the mysterious world of magic and the witches' sabbaths on Bald Mountain. Who was accused of witchcraft?

Who and how made a pact with the devil? What activities took place at the sabbaths, and what do children, milk hares, and calf skins have to do with it?

About all this, the author tells in his fascinating study of the phenomenon of witchcraft in Scandinavian countries.