A post by Archives & Special Collections Apprentice, Charlie Lough Amongst the vast Durham Probate Records (DPR) collection is a modest document wrapper from the 16th century. However, upon closer inspection, this unassuming item hints at a world… | By durhamunilib on September 10, 2024 | A post by Archives & Special Collections Apprentice, Charlie Lough Amongst the vast Durham Probate Records (DPR) collection is a modest document wrapper from the 16th century. However, upon closer inspection, this unassuming item hints at a world where witchcraft and sorcery were very real fears. Let's travel back to 1592, to the village of Chatton in Northumberland, where a man named Steven Revlye died. After his death, an inventory of his belongings was created. But what is really fascinating is not what Steven owned, but what was used to wrap up this inventory; a piece of paper that had served as a public notice. The document in question had the remains of a public announcement about "sorc[ery]" and "incha[ntment]," words that would send shivers down the spines of any 16th century villager. During this time, the word "witchcraft" was used to describe a wide range of practices, some of which were purely imaginary. But whether real or not, those accused of such practices often faced severe consequences. | | | |
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