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Articles on Witchcraft

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One of the earliest depictions of flying witches is in a 15th-century text entitled “Le champion des dames,” or “The Defender of Ladies.” Martin Le Franc/W. Schild. Die Maleficia der Hexenleut' via Wikimedia Commons

Can witches fly? A historian unpacks the medieval invention − and skepticism − of the witch on a broomstick

The iconic image of a witch on a broomstick has apocryphal origins. But whether they could actually fly didn’t stop Christian society from persecuting them.
Feet of a person with lymphatic filariasis, also known as elephantiasis. WHO

Patients’ beliefs about illness matter: the case of elephantiasis in rural Ghana

In rural Ghana, only 18% of patients believe elephantiasis is a disease. Some others think it is caused by curses or even rain. Only by understanding local beliefs can it be treated effectively.
Fear about women’s power was an essential part of ancient anxiety about witchcraft. Vinicius Rafael / EyeEm via Getty Images

What Greek myth tells us about modern witchcraft

From ancient Greece to modern-day TikTok witchcraft, the world of witches has been a changing one.
Most Wiccans in the U.S. practice alone, though they congregate in large gatherings to conduct rituals and learn from one another. Sarah Swinford/EyeEm via Getty Images

What is Wicca? An expert on modern witchcraft explains.

Interest in Wicca and witchcraft appears to be increasing, but what exactly is Wicca in the first place?
Mr Albinism Kenya Jairus Ongetta (L) and Miss Albinism Kenya Loise Lihanda pose at the Mr and Miss Albinism East Africa pageant. YASUYOSHI CHIBA/AFP via Getty Images

Albinism in Tanzania: what can be done to break the stigma

Because of their appearance, people with albinism in Tanzania are often socially excluded and frequently (and sometimes violently) discriminated against.

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