Guest Post: Kim Murphy - The Cunning Folk
Apr 22, 2011
The Cunning Folk
Imagine a beautiful woman being searched for minor body imperfections that would prove she was a witch. This scene was played out all across Europe. In North America, most people think of Salem, but in truth the first witch trial held on the continent took place in Virginia. As a Virginia resident, I was intrigued to learn more, and the premise became the basis for my paranormal/historical novel, The Dreaming: Walks Through Mist.
Some of those accused of being witches were the cunning folk. "Cunning folk" was the term used in English society, but throughout Europe, they were practitioners of many arts, including healing, treasure seeking, finding lost property, fortune telling, and, of course, love magic. Also known as wise men/women, conjurers, and wizards, they were well regarded members of the community, but in many cases that respect likely bordered on fear.
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