Just Say Yes

Abstract: Remembering that around 75% of those whom we know were accused of witchcraft were female is essential. It's a very large preponderance. While many, many other approaches to witch trials are profoundly insightful and valuable, more substantial work on women's roles in witchcraft accusations and trials would therefore be welcome. This includes daring to ask questions about women's medical practice and "the myth of the midwife witch", which have felt forbidden for some time. If scholars disengage from this area because they are concerned about being labelled and judged, then less helpful—although well-motivated—popular accounts will predominate because the link between witch trials and misogyny is undeniable. Since historical misogyny continues to underwrite contemporary misogyny, it's a pressing research concern.