Witchcraft: A Graphic History

Shortlisted for the The British Book Awards ‘Every witch uses her magic differently. I use mine to heal people, while others ...‘ ‘What do the others do!? Are there many different types of witches!?‘‘Oh yes! Many...‘ Witchcraft: A Graphic History immerses readers in the world of witchcraft, revealing the practices and beliefs of witches. Through the story of Lindsay, a young and curious 19th-century lass, and her encounters with Biddy Early, the famous ‘wise woman of County Clare,‘ readers learn how magic was used to heal, protect, and empower communities. Biddy Early, who lived from 1798-1874 in Ireland, was by no means the first-ever witch, but she was the first to appear on the historical record. Before her, fears and superstitions surrounding practitioners of ‘the nameless art‘ were too strong. It is said that Biddy took an apprenticeship with the ‘good folk,‘ sidhe or faeries, when she was very young, and it was from them that she learnt her skill as a healer. Never one to accept monetary payment for the help she offered, Biddy would often swap home-brewed alcohol for her services, which in turn made her ramshackle cottage in Feakle a hub for the local community. When her little corner of the county drew the attention of the Catholic Church and the local authorities, things became very difficult for this unusual woman . . . Encompassing self-empowerment, feminism, dealing with stigma, and eco-spirituality, as well as plant magic, traditions, and green wisdom, Witchcraft: A Graphic History provides a visually rich and engaging exploration of an endlessly fascinating subject, showing how historical witchcraft continues to inspire curiosity and reflection today. This book is part of a series that also includes Tarot: A Graphic History and Goddesses: A Graphic History, each offering a vivid, illustrated journey into magic, mysticism, and the extraordinary women behind these traditions.