Session 2: Panel 1: Presenter 3 (Paper) -- Hunting Power through Witch Hunts in Early Modern Scotland

Witch hunts occurred throughout early modern Europe and few countries were unaffected by the rampant prosecution of “witches.” Although many places experienced such witch hunts, Scotland uniquely saw a rapid increase in witch trials during the reign of King James the VI. The King, who prior to ascending the throne had not expressed interest in the prosecution of witches, suddenly focused his leadership on witch hunts. This paper explores the reasons King James VI increased Scotland’s witch prosecutions. Specifically, this paper analyzes how the increasing witch trials were correlated to various attacks on King James’ power and how the prosecutions aided the King in protecting his sovereignty