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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
imageThe '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 Images

Books have always had the power to cast a spell over their readers – figuratively.

But one book that was quite popular...

Read more: How do you spot a witch? This notorious 15th-century book gave instructions – and helped execute...

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